Takeoff and landing weather minimums: IFR: All certificate holders

This regulation sets weather minimums for Part 121 airline operations during takeoff and landing under IFR.

For takeoff: Pilots cannot depart if reported weather is below minimums specified in their company's operations specifications, or if none exist, below Part 91/97 minimums.

For approaches: Pilots need a current weather report to continue past the final approach fix. At U.S. airports, reported visibility must meet or exceed approach minimums to begin the final approach segment. However, if you legally start an approach and weather deteriorates, you may continue to DA/DH or MDA. Below that altitude, you need sufficient flight visibility and at least one specified visual reference (approach lights, runway, threshold, etc.) to continue landing.

Special provisions: You can start an approach below visibility minimums if using both an ILS and PAR simultaneously, or when using an approved Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) per your company's authorization.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*