Flight Planning

Question 1

When may an IFR flight depart without a forecast?

Answer 1

Provided the pilot is satisfied that the weather at the departure point will permit safe return within one hour of departure.
A forecast must obtained for the destination within 30 minutes after departure.

Question 2

What buffer period applies to destination and alternate forecasts?

Answer 2

The forecast must be valid 30 minutes before and 60 minutes after ETA.

Question 3

What must a forecast include?

Answer 3

a. an airport forecast for the:
1. destination; and
2. when required, alternate airport; and

b. one of the following:
1. a flight forecast; or
2. a GAF (at and below A100); or
3. a SIGWX forecast (above A100); and

c. a wind and temperature forecast.

For a flight to a destination with no approach, the minimum requirement is a GAF.