Quiz: IFR Departures

The departure phase of an IFR flight is where preparation pays off. Within minutes of takeoff, you’ll be transitioning to instruments, complying with climb restrictions, following ATC instructions, and navigating departure procedures—all while maintaining precise aircraft control. Small misunderstandings during this phase can quickly compound into larger problems.

This month’s quiz tests your knowledge of IFR departures, from obstacle departure procedures and standard instrument departures to departure clearances and real-world ATC expectations. These five questions highlight situations that instrument pilots encounter regularly, helping you identify any weak spots before your next flight. See how many you can answer correctly, then use the explanations to sharpen your departure briefing and cockpit workflow.

What distinguishes an obstacle departure procedure (ODP) from a standard instrument departure (SID) when planning a Departure Procedure (DP)?

A SID is never assigned by ATC, whereas an ODP is mandatory for all Part 91 departures.

A SID is primarily designed for noise abatement, while ODPs are designed for separation in Class B, C and D airspace.

A SID is designed to increase capacity of terminal airspace, while an ODP is used to define procedures that simply provide obstacle clearance.

Correct! Wrong!

All Departure Procedures (DPs) provide straight-ahead obstacle clearance provided the aircraft:

Climbs to 400 feet above airport elevation before turning.

Climbs to 600 feet above airport elevation before turning.

Turns no sooner than 200 feet AGL.

Correct! Wrong!

Which is true regarding the use of a instrument departure procedure chart?

To use an instrument departure procedure, the pilot must possess both the textual and graphic form of the approved procedure.

To use an instrument departure procedure, the pilot must possess at least the textual description of the approved standard departure.

The use of instrument departure procedures is mandatory.

Correct! Wrong!

During a takeoff into IFR conditions with low ceilings, when should the pilot contact departure control?

When advised by the tower.

Upon completing the first turn after takeoff or upon establishing cruise climb on a straight out departure.

Before penetrating the clouds.

Correct! Wrong!

A particular instrument departure procedure requires a minimum climb rate of 210 feet per NM to 8,000 feet. If you climb with a ground speed of 140 knots, what is the rate of climb required in feet per minute?

210

490

450

Correct! Wrong!

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IFR Focus Team

The IFR Focus Team is made up of experienced flight instructors, professional pilots, and editors dedicated to helping instrument pilots sharpen their skills. Drawing on decades of real-world flying and teaching experience, the team curates practical tips, training resources, and scenario-based content to make IFR flying safer and more enjoyable.

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