Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

At what altitude are mandatory reports required when flying under IFR?

1. 5,000' MSL and above

2. All flight altitudes while under IFR

3. Only above 10,000' MSL

4. Below 18,000' MSL

The correct answer is: All flight altitudes while under IFR

Mandatory reports while flying under IFR are required at all flight altitudes. This ensures that air traffic controllers maintain a complete understanding of aircraft positions, altitudes, intentions, and other pertinent flight information at all phases of the flight. These reports can include essential information such as when a pilot changes altitude, encounters turbulence, or deviates from their filed route. The requirement to make these reports underpins the safety protocol that governs IFR operations, allowing for effective traffic management and ensuring that all aircraft are contributing to the situational awareness necessary for safety in controlled airspace. This comprehensive reporting is crucial at all flight altitudes, not just specified levels, as weather conditions, traffic, and other factors can affect safety at any height during an IFR flight. Thus, the correct answer reflects a broader safety standard rather than limiting it to certain altitudes.