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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 91.167

Fuel requirements for flight in IFR conditions

Read the official rule

In plain English

For IFR flight you must carry enough fuel to fly to your destination, then to the most distant alternate (if one is required), and then for 45 minutes at normal cruise. Conditions can require more.

Key points

  • Destination + alternate (if required) + 45 minutes.
  • Computed at normal cruise consumption.
  • Pairs with the alternate rules in 91.169.

Common pitfalls

  • Forgetting the alternate leg when one is required.
  • Treating the legal minimum as the personal minimum.

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

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 7, 2026.