What is the IFR fuel reserve requirement?

The IFR fuel reserve requirement is established to ensure that pilots have sufficient fuel to return to an alternate airport or to safely continue flying in the event of unexpected circumstances. The correct answer of 45 minutes is based on regulations that specify the fuel reserve needed after reaching the destination airport.

In IFR conditions, the requirement is typically that the aircraft must have enough fuel to fly for at least 45 minutes beyond the planned flight duration when flying at normal cruising speed. This ensures that in case of delays due to weather, traffic, or other unforeseen situations, the aircraft can safely manage the situation without running low on fuel.

Understanding this requirement is crucial for flight planning and safety, as it helps pilots to anticipate potential emergencies and to make informed decisions about fuel loads and alternate airports. This reserve fuel is a vital part of maintaining operational safety under IFR conditions.