What is required for pilots flying under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)?

For pilots flying under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), adhering to specific routes and altitudes provided by air traffic control is essential. IFR is designed for operations in a controlled airspace environment where visibility may be limited, such as in cloud cover or adverse weather conditions.

When flying under IFR, pilots rely on navigational aids and instructions from air traffic control (ATC) to safely navigate through airspace. ATC issues clearances that not only dictate the specific route to be followed but also the altitudes to maintain during various phases of flight. This ensures that aircraft are properly separated from one another, especially in busy airspace, and helps maintain safety and efficiency in the national airspace system.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the requirements for IFR flying. For instance, a weather forecast guaranteeing clear skies is not necessary; IFR conditions often occur with less than optimal weather. Flight visibility requirements under IFR can vary and are often less than 10 miles, depending on the operational environment. Additionally, the use of visual navigation equipment is not a requirement for IFR; instead, pilots utilize instrument navigation systems to comply with IFR operations.