While flying under IFR, what equipment is required?

When flying under IFR (Instrument Flight Rules), it is essential to have navigation equipment suitable for the route that will be flown. This requirement ensures that pilots are able to navigate accurately through airspace during variable weather conditions where visual navigation is not feasible.

The equipment must include capabilities such as VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range), GPS (Global Positioning System), and/or DME (Distance Measuring Equipment), enabling the pilot to rely on instruments for navigation. This navigational accuracy is critical for maintaining safety and complying with air traffic control requirements.

Visual flight rules equipment or just basic flight instruments would not provide the necessary capabilities needed to navigate effectively under IFR conditions. Therefore, the focus on navigation equipment in the context of IFR acknowledges the complexity and importance of instrument navigation, which is vital for successful and safe flight operations.