Choosing the Right Alternate: IFR Rules vs. Real-World Decisions

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Filing an alternate airport often feels like just another step in the IFR paperwork shuffle. You type something in the box, hit “file,” and move on. But when the weather doesn’t cooperate, that alternate airport can quickly become the most important part of your plan.

Decisions on the Fly

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How far you’re willing to go in shifting headings, altitudes and destinations is ultimately a PIC decision, and that can include not just one, but a number of changes. Having an early assessment to prepare for possible changes helps frame the overall strategy to avoid bad weather. That way, you’re ready. So when a flight ends with the feeling you were prepared, you won’t regret going in the first place.

How to Choose the Best Alternate Airport for Your IFR Flight: A Pilot’s Guide

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Keep an eye on the weather as you approach the destination, using both ADS-B datalink weather, and by tuning in the local ATIS/AWOS on the radio. If it looks like the weather will be near the minimums for the approach, it is time to start thinking about what the best alternate airport will be based on the current weather. If it still looks like the planned alternate is the best option, go for it.