I assume by "fog layer at 300" you mean fog from the ground topping out at
300. Otherwise you would say an "overcast layer at 300."

Either way, you can depart from a Class E (or Class G) untowered airport IFR
with what is called a void time clearance. You call up the approach
facility, over the phone or radio in some cases, and either directly or
relayed through an FSS, and are cleared to take off IFR in a short slot time
that ends at the "void time." In the old days we used to call from a pay
phone at the FBO, then hurry to take off before the clearance expired. Now
we call from the end of the runway on the cell phone when ready. Works like
a champ, and once you see it done it is not as hard as it sounds.

Separation is provided all the way to the ground if it is a true Class E
airport (somewhat rare.) At a Class G airport, separation is not provided
until you enter Class E. While your void time clearance is in effect, ATC
will not allow any IFR traffic into "your" airport. The big sky theory is
your assurance? of separation in Class G.

Landing is pretty much the same way in reverse. You are cleared to execute
the approach before you lose ATC on the radio. It does not matter if they
can see you on radar or not. You call on the phone when you are on the
ground to close your IFR flight plan. Until you do, ATC will hold all
traffic going in or out IFR. Again, it is "your" airport until you cancel
IFR or close your plan.

Hope this answers your questions.


"mindenpilot" wrote in message
...
I'm VFR and have some questions about IFR.
I've been toying with the idea of pursuing an IFR rating, especially due
to the recent (uncharacteristic) fog.
I've only flown real in IMC once.
I was at a class D airport, and the CFI got clearance before takeoff.
He got all kinds of instructions for going up through the soup.

I'm wondering how that works at a class E airport, like the one I'm based
at in Minden, NV.
For example, if there was real IMC (a fog layer at 300 AGL), would you be
allowed to take off?
If so, what would be the procedure?
How would you ensure separation from other traffic?
The closest tower is Reno, but they wouldn't be able to get any radar fix
until you climbed to about 3500' AGL.

Similarly, for landing (assuming a GPS approach is approved, there is no
ILS, etc).
What would you do once Reno lost radar contact?

Thanks,

Adam
N7966L
Beech Super III