xyzzy wrote in
oups.com:


Exactly. Many VFR-only flyers envision IFR flying as full of
nettlesome complexity. Actually, the reverse is usually true.

Yes. Especially if you are going to be flying in or near ADIZ's,
restricted airspace etc. Do what you're told by ATC and you'll never
bust a TFR or ADIZ -- or if you do, it isn't your fault. And "doing
what you're told" isn't bad, the controllers I fly with are pretty
accomodating and flexible.

For example, there is a restricted airspace over a major military base
near my airport that frequently requires circumnavigation when coming
fhome rom the south VFR, and also a nuke plant just to the east of
the field with similar restrictions. But when I file IFR, I often get
to fly right through the restricted airspace or over the plant. I also
get some nice views of military hardware flying under me or nearby
during those flights. I never got to fly through the restricted
airspace until I was IFR rated and now I do it routinely, under ATC
guidance.

Many, many times I've been cleared into restricted airspace while VFR.
All I needed to do was call ATC and ask. This includes military air bases
(both Air Force and Navy), nuclear sites and a TFR as well as Bravo
airspace. Conversely, while IFR I've been vectored around Bravo airspace
and restricted airspace.

--
Marty Shapiro
Silicon Rallye Inc.

(remove SPAMNOT to email me)