Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

What are the IFR fuel requirements for a flight?

1. A Enough fuel to reach the destination only

2. B Enough fuel for the destination with a 30-minute reserve

3. C Enough fuel to reach the destination and alternate with a 45-minute reserve

4. D Enough fuel for a single flight, no reserves required

The correct answer is: C Enough fuel to reach the destination and alternate with a 45-minute reserve

The correct answer outlines the comprehensive IFR fuel requirements that consider not just the flight to the destination, but also the need for fuel reserves and the possibility of needing to divert to an alternate airport. Under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), pilots must plan for the possibility of diverting to an alternate if the weather at the destination deteriorates or if there are any other operational issues. According to the regulations, pilots must calculate enough fuel to reach the destination airport, fly to an alternate airport if required, and then have an additional reserve of fuel to ensure safe operations. The requirement for a 45-minute reserve is commonly established to account for unforeseen circumstances, such as delays in landing or increased fuel burn due to holding patterns or diversions. This rigorous fuel planning ensures enhanced safety by fully preparing the pilot for various scenarios that might arise during the flight. The other options either do not include an alternate or do not provide a sufficient fuel reserve, making them inadequate for IFR operations.