Alternate Airports - QT
Lesson Quicktakes cover the items that should be memorized from each of the wifiCFI Lessons. They do not cover all of the lesson details in-depth.
WHAT IS AN ALTERNATE AIRPORT?
It is an airport included in a flight plan other than the destination airport.
WHEN WOULD I USE AN ALTERNATE AIRPORT?
It is used in case a pilot is unable to land at the destination airport due to weather or other emergency conditions.
WHEN IS AN ALTERNATE AIRPORT REQUIRED TO BE FILED?
1, 2, 3 Rule:
1 hour before to 1 hour after the ETA check to make sure:
The ceiling are greater than 2,000’ at the Destination Airport and,
The visibility is greater than 3 SM at the Destination Airport.
STANDARD ALTERNATE AIRPORT WEATHER MINIMUMS:
Airports with a Precision Approach Procedure:
Minimum Ceiling Requirement = 600’.
Minimum Visibility Requirement = 2 SM.
Airports without a Precision Approach but with a Non-Precision Approach:
Minimum Ceiling Requirement = 800’.
Minimum Visibility Requirement = 2 SM.
Airports without an Instrument Approach Procedure:
Ceiling and visibility must allow a descent from the MEA down to the Alternate Airport (and landing) under VFR Conditions.
IFR FUEL REQUIREMENTS:
Without an Alternate Airport = Destination + 45 min.
With an Alternate Airport = Destination + Alternate Airport + 45 min.