Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) is a set of regulations and procedures for flying aircraft, whereby navigation and control of the aircraft are conducted by reference to the aircraft's instruments rather than by visual reference to the ground. It is a system that allows aircraft to operate in weather conditions that are below the minimums required for visual flight. IFR is used in aviation to determine the aircraft's position and course by using instruments in the cockpit, rather than relying on visual cues from the outside environment. This is particularly useful in conditions such as fog, clouds, or night time when visibility is limited. Pilots must be specially trained and certified to fly under IFR. The aircraft must also be equipped with specific instruments and equipment, including but not limited to, an altimeter, an attitude indicator, a heading indicator, and a horizontal situation indicator. The use of IFR has significantly increased the safety and efficiency of air travel, allowing flights to continue in a wider range of weather conditions.