When the Red Phone rings all planes and pilots depart to the
target, zero-zero take-off, no alternate required, in war
time. Peace time rules follow FAA part 121 with some
modifications.

But consider that a VFR pilot on top of an overcast is
depending on the engine, electrical system and all other
elements to work perfectly. The fact that there may be
clear skies 50 miles west does no good unless the engine is
running to get you there. An IFR pilot has the option of a
clearance and approach where the plane is at the time. He
may need to declare an emergency because of the failure, not
because he isn't rated to be in the clouds.

If the weather and other conditions are favorable at the
departure point and you can get to the next airport, depart.
You make the go-no go decision every 5-10-15 minutes. You
may deviate from the planned track, you may fly 500 miles to
do a 350 mile trip, you may land and wait for the bad
weather front to pass and then depart again from behind the
front. 100% safety means you don't fly at all, but you want
to accept only the truly accidental risks. Weather can be
seen, is forecast (forecast means guess) and the pilot in
flight can and should never be fixated on one thing.



--
James H. Macklin
ATP,CFI,A&P

--
The people think the Constitution protects their rights;
But government sees it as an obstacle to be overcome.
some support
http://www.usdoj.gov/olc/secondamendment2.htm
See http://www.fija.org/ more about your rights and duties.


"Matt Whiting" wrote in message
...
| Jim Macklin wrote:
|
| Flying goals in order of importance...
| 1. Get someplace safely.
| 2. Get where you want to go, safely.
| 3. Get where you want to go on time, safely.
|
| If you always follow those rules you should be safe.
|
| Remember the USAF has peace time rules and nuclear war
| rules.
|
| I thought the main goal of the USAF was to keep the enemy
from getting
| anywhere safely. Things sure have changed...
|
|
| Matt