QUALWhat's required to act as PIC under IFR?
An instrument rating for the category (61.65) + an aircraft equipped and authorized for IFR (91.205(d)).
RECENCYInstrument recency window & tasks?
Preceding 6 calendar months: six approaches + Holding + Intercepting/Tracking ("6 & HIT") — 61.57(c).
RECENCYMay you use a simulator/ATD for currency?
Yes — approved FFS, FTD, or ATD per 61.57(c)(2).
RECENCYCurrency lapsed < 6 months ago — can you fly IFR?
Not until you re-do the 6/HIT tasks (in VMC or with safety pilot/instructor). Grace period to regain, not to exercise.
RECENCYWhen is an IPC mandatory?
After more than 6 months past expiry (≈12 mo total) — 61.57(d).
LOGWhat do you log for each approach?
Location, type of approach, conditions (actual/simulated), and any safety pilot — 61.51(g).
R44Is the R44 IFR-approved?
Normally certificated VFR-only. Confirm the specific airframe's authorization in the POH.
WXApproved weather sources?
Flight Service (1-800-WX-BRIEF), aviationweather.gov, or an approved commercial provider/EFB.
WXMETAR vs. TAF?
METAR = observed surface report (hourly); TAF = terminal-area forecast.
WXIFR vs. LIFR categories?
IFR: ceiling 500–<1,000 ft &/or vis 1–<3 SM. LIFR: ceiling <500 ft &/or vis <1 SM.
WXTop IFR weather hazards for the R44?
Structural icing (R44 not approved for known icing), embedded thunderstorms, falling LIFR ceilings.
WXThe 1-2-3 rule?
No alternate if, ±1 hr of ETA, dest forecast ≥ 2,000 ft ceiling and ≥ 3 SM (91.169).
XCMEA vs. MOCA?
MEA: obstacle clearance + signal for whole segment. MOCA: obstacle clearance + signal only within 22 NM of the VOR.
XCIFR fuel rule (91.167)?
Destination + alternate (if required) + 45 minutes at normal cruise.
XCWhere do R44 fuel-flow/range numbers come from?
The R44 POH Section 5 (Performance) — never a generic figure. Confirm with CFI.
XCHelicopter alternate minimums — same as airplanes?
No — special rotorcraft provisions apply. Confirm current 91.169 helicopter criteria with CFII.