FlyCurrentFLYCURRENT
IR.I.B.K3fFAA-S-ACS-8C · Nov 2023Knowledge

f. Clouds

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Meteorology applicable to the departure, en route, alternate, and destination for flights conducted under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) to include expected climate and hazardous conditions such as: f. Clouds

Bottom line

Meteorological conditions expressed in terms of visibility, distance from clouds, and ceiling less than the minimums specified for visual meteorological conditions, requiring operations to be conducted under IFR.

Key numbers

Key numbers for f. Clouds
NumberWhat it means
Ceiling 600 ft, visibility 2 SM (aircraft other than helicopters)Precision alternate
Ceiling 800 ft, visibility 2 SM (aircraft other than helicopters)Nonprecision alternate
15 to 20 minutes old when displayed in the cockpitNEXRAD age

FAA references

  1. RMH Glossary — FAA-H-8083-2A
  2. PHAK ch. 13 (p. 13-2) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  3. 14 CFR 91.169 (IFR flight plan: Information required.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  4. AC 91-92, para. 7.7 — AC No: 91-92
  5. PHAK ch. 13 (p. 13-5) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
Members lesson

Build understanding you can use

Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.

  • Full teaching sections: What it is; Key points; Rules and numbers
  • Check your understanding with answers you can reveal
  • Common mistakes paired with the FAA facts that correct them
View membership options