Regulation Text
Unless otherwise authorized by ATC, the pilot in command of each aircraft operated under IFR in controlled airspace must ensure that a continuous watch is maintained on the appropriate frequency and must report the following as soon as possible—
(a) The time and altitude of passing each designated reporting point, or the reporting points specified by ATC, except that while the aircraft is under radar control, only the passing of those reporting points specifically requested by ATC need be reported;
(b) Any unforecast weather conditions encountered; and
(c) Any other information relating to the safety of flight.
[Docket 18334, 54 FR 34294, Aug. 18, 1989, as amended by Amdt. 91-296, 72 FR 31679, June 7, 2007]
The short answer
(14 CFR § 91.183) Unless otherwise authorized by ATC, the pilot in command of an IFR flight in controlled airspace must keep a continuous watch on the appropriate frequency and report, as soon as possible, the time and altitude passing each designated reporting point, any unforecast weather, and any other information relating to safety of flight.
Research Notes
Common Questions
When must an IFR pilot report passing a reporting point?
As soon as possible, the time and altitude passing each designated reporting point — but under radar control only those points ATC specifically requests.
“(a) The time and altitude of passing each designated reporting point, or the reporting points specified by ATC, except that while the aircraft is under radar control, only the passing of those reporting points specifically requested by ATC need be reported” — 14 CFR § 91.183(a)
What weather must be reported to ATC under IFR?
Any unforecast weather conditions encountered must be reported as soon as possible.
“(b) Any unforecast weather conditions encountered” — 14 CFR § 91.183(b)
Is a continuous radio watch required on IFR?
Yes — the PIC must ensure a continuous watch is maintained on the appropriate frequency.
“the pilot in command of each aircraft operated under IFR in controlled airspace must ensure that a continuous watch is maintained on the appropriate frequency” — 14 CFR § 91.183
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