Table of Contents
Can gliders fly IFR?
Yes, advanced glider pilots do in cloud flying, there is even a special rating for it. IFR SEP pilots who have a glider licence are allowed to fly in clouds too. The idea is to use the strong updrafts in CU and even TCU clouds.
Do you have to file a flight plan to fly IFR?
No IFR flight plan needs to be filed with the flight service station or DUATS. The controller will then issue your IFR clearance, and you’re good to go. Source: Flying Magazine, TEC, and FAA Airmen Knowledge Handbook. Enjoy our 10 Day Instrument Rating Course and pass the check ride on the first attempt!
Can you fly in IMC without an IFR flight plan?
Yes, a pilot CAN fly IFR without a Flight Plan, but CANNOT fly IFR without an ATC Clearance.
Who can you file an IFR flight plan with?
Submit a hardcopy flight plan form to your local flight service station. Call Flight Services (1-800-WX-BRIEF or 1-800-992-7433) — The flight services specialist will file your flight plan.
Is it possible to fly in the cloud in a glider?
Yes it is possible to fly in cloud in a glider. In fact there is an endorsement for it for your licence with an exam. (In the UK anyway.) It does only require primary instruments, the one used for cloud flying is called a turn and slip, showing bank and yaw. Along with the yaw string.
Do I have to fly IFR If I have a cloud endorsement?
If you are flying close to (or within) a cloud, you must be flying in IMC which logically means you must be flying IFR because the VMC criteria cannot be met. The fact you have a cloud flying endorsement / IMC rating means you must be flying IFR whenever you are less than the legal VMC.
What is an IFR rated pilot?
IFR rated pilots in a glider with adequate instrumentation making cross country flights that involve flying in cloud with a block altitude clearance.
Are there any motor gliders rated for IFR?
There are some motor gliders rated for IFR I believe, but there’s also “wave windows” with LOAs from ATC that may or may not waive some of the cloud clearance requirements if they’re active. Usually they’re used to be above FL180 more than for cloud clearance, but that all depends on what is written in the letter.