A pilot flying solely in actual instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) completes six instrument approaches, holding procedures, and intercepting/tracking of courses, all without using a view-limiting device because the aircraft remains continuously in the clouds. For purposes of 14 CFR 61.57(c) instrument currency, does this flight qualify?
- AYes, but only if the flight is also logged with a CFII aboard
- BNo, currency can only be established using an approved flight simulator or FTD
- CNo, a safety pilot and view-limiting device are always required to log currency
- DYes, because the tasks were performed by reference to instruments in actual IMC, satisfying the regulation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Yes, because the tasks were performed by reference to instruments in actual IMC, satisfying the regulation
61.57(c) requires the six approaches, holding, and intercepting/tracking tasks be performed by reference to instruments, either in actual IMC or simulated instrument conditions. A view-limiting device and safety pilot are needed only when simulating instrument conditions in VMC; actual IMC inherently satisfies the by-reference-to-instruments requirement without a device or another pilot.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A CFII is not required to log currency-qualifying tasks performed solo in actual IMC.
- B. Simulators are an alternative method, not the exclusive means, of establishing currency.
- C. A safety pilot/hood is only required when simulating IMC in VMC, not during actual IMC.
Actual IMC and Instrument Currency
61.57(c) currency tasks may be performed either in actual instrument conditions or simulated instrument conditions (with a safety pilot and view-limiting device); actual IMC alone satisfies the by-reference-to-instruments requirement.
- A view-limiting device and safety pilot are needed only for simulated conditions in VMC
- Actual IMC flight inherently meets the regulatory requirement without additional equipment
- Tasks required: 6 approaches, holding, and intercepting/tracking courses within the preceding 6 calendar months
Memory trick: 'Real clouds don't need a hood'