IFR: Takeoff limitations

This regulation addresses a specific scenario: when you're departing IFR and the weather is good enough to take off but not good enough to land back at that same airport.

If you find yourself in this situation—where conditions meet takeoff minimums but fall below the airport's IFR landing minimums—you cannot depart unless there's an alternate airport within one hour's flying time at normal cruise speed in still air.

Why this matters: If you experience an emergency shortly after takeoff (engine failure, pressurization problem, medical issue), you need somewhere you can legally and safely return to under IFR. Your departure airport won't work because it's below landing minimums, so the regulation ensures you have a backup option reasonably close by.

Note that if weather is at or above landing minimums at your departure airport, this rule doesn't apply—you can use that airport as your own alternate if needed.

*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.*