On Tue, 28 Nov 2006 08:30:31 -0800, Sam Spade wrote:

Ron Rosenfeld wrote:


That is NOT an IFR clearance. So although you were "in the system", you
were NOT on an IFR flight plan.

Don't forget that, among other things, an IFR clearance requires a
clearance limit (which is often the destination airport). That was NOT
stated in your instruction.

Got an AIM reference?

No, but 7110.65 seems to instruct controllers to issue a clearance limit in
many areas in Ch 4 (IFR). Including arrival procedures.

The controllers are also supposed to instruct VFR pilots conducting
practice instrument approaches to "maintain VFR". ATC did not do this,
according to the OP.

The pilot never requested an IFR clearance, and controllers can and do
apply IFR separation procedures to VFR a/c conducting instrument
approaches.

I can't see how the OP could be held in violation of acting as PIC under
IFR in these circumstances. But the exact wording of the communication
from ATC would be of interest.
Ron (EPM) (N5843Q, Mooney M20E) (CP, ASEL, ASES, IA)