Paul Tomblin wrote:
In a previous article, Sydney Hoeltzli said:

Similar but not the same. For example, it doesn't indicate
if a given airport is class G or class E, far's I can tell.


What operational difference does that make? They're both uncontrolled,
right?

I thought you just got your IR, Paul. Shouldn't you tell me?

If the airport is Class G, you can cancel IFR once you're clear
of clouds and have 1 mile vis below 700 AGL. This often means
you can contact ATC in the air, and they can release another aircraft
for the approach.

If the airport is a Class E surface zone, that would be a violation.
You need "152" cloud clearance and 3 miles vis, which might mean
you need to land and find a phone to cancel and meanwhile someone
else is spinning.

Of course, there might be operational reasons why you wouldn't
wish to cancel until you're on the ground regardless, but if
you're comfortable cancelling in the air, that's the operational
difference.

Cheers,
Sydney