When must Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) be used?

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) must be used when visual cues are obscured by weather or darkness. IFR is designed for conditions where pilots cannot maintain visual reference to the ground or navigate using visual landmarks due to factors like low visibility, thick clouds, or nighttime conditions. In these scenarios, pilots rely on instruments on the aircraft to control the flight and navigate safely.

Using IFR allows pilots to operate under controlled airspace and maintain safe distances from other aircraft, even when visual references are lacking. This is critical for safety, as flying solely on visual cues in poor conditions can lead to disorientation or loss of control. Understanding when to use IFR is essential for maintaining flight safety during adverse weather or limited visibility situations.