The Hardest Go-No-Go decisions In Aviation

[@inspirationandaviation938]

Thank you very much Captain Scott.

[@ScottKoonCFI]

You are very welcome! Thanks for the comment!

[@rssvg]

Hi Scott, just wondering that if Le Sueur Airport is Class G and you wanted to do pattern work at 1000 AGL, and the cloud coverage starts at 1100, wouldn't that mean you didn't have the required 500ft cloud clearance above you which is the minimum for class G? Separately, your videos are great! Well done, perfectly composed information, to the point and really help, so I really appreciate them. Keep it up!

[@ScottKoonCFI]

Thanks for the comment. I’m glad the videos are useful to you!! I’m already working on a couple more. Your question is part of why this question is a bit tricky. The limitations for Class G airspace change based on the altitude being flown and the time of day. The minimums for Class G daytime when at or below 1200 AGL are to have at least 1 Statute Mile Visibility and Remain Clear of Clouds 91.155(a). Even at night, the same minimums would apply, as long as you are below 1200 AGL and within 1/2 statute miles of the runway 91.155(b). Having said that, just because it is legal doesn’t make it safe. Ensuring you have at least 500 feet between pattern altitude and the clouds is definitely the safer option. I hope this helps.

[@swordoflorn]

Dont forget glass G airspace visibility and cloud clearence requirements change at night. None of these would be legal at night

[@ScottKoonCFI]

Excellent! You are absolutely right! This all changes at night. Thanks for the comment!

[@justplanefred]

With the middle one only requiring a mile visability how could you legally take off if you can't complete the pattern to land? Legally once you took off you would either have to land or scud run until you got into better conditions if you could...

[@ScottKoonCFI]

You are absolutely correct! Part of the struggle is that the cloud clearances are regulatory (14 CFR 91.155), while the pattern descriptions are “best practice” (AIM 4-3-3). So, a pilot could take off, scud run straight until outside the magenta ring and be “legal”. That is why I was careful to say “Legally”. To your point, just because it is legal doesn’t make it a good idea. Again, thanks for the comment!