IFRinoperative

IFRinoperative is a term used in aviation to indicate that an aircraft's instrument or equipment required for safe instrument flight rules (IFR) operation is nonfunctional. It is a descriptive label used by pilots, maintenance personnel, and operators to flag a deficiency that may affect IFR capability. The term is not a standalone regulatory category, but it signals that corrective action, placarding, and documentation are needed before or during IFR operations.

Regulatory and operational framework: In the United States, IFR flight operations are governed by regulations that designate equipment required for IFR flight and the rules for operating with inoperative equipment. Under 14 CFR 91.205, certain instruments and systems are required for IFR flight. If an item becomes inoperative, operators follow procedures under 14 CFR 91.213 to determine whether the flight can proceed under an approved minimum equipment list (MEL), must remove or repair the item, or may continue under VFR. When an item is deemed inoperative, it is typically placarded, logged in the maintenance record, and a corrective action plan is pursued before resuming IFR operations.

Operational implications: An IFRinoperative condition can constrain a flight. Depending on the item and applicable MEL or maintenance program, the aircraft may be flown IFR with the item deferred, require diversion, or be restricted to VFR until repairs are completed. Maintenance action is generally required to restore full IFR capability, and flight crews must ensure all limitations are understood and complied with.

Examples and context: Common IFRinoperative items include navigation or communication equipment, attitude indicators, altimeters, and approach systems. The exact handling depends on the aircraft type, operator, and applicable MEL or regulatory framework.

See also: IFR, MEL, 14 CFR 91.205, 14 CFR 91.213.