RMCN172RG
Pattern Altitude
Some how I missed the meanig of this aviation term in my IFR training.
Taking the ASF IFR Insights course on the internet I now know what it means and how my interpetation could have had serious consequences.
Background, PPL OCT 2006, IFR Training completed MAR 2007. First IMC-IFR cross country JUL 2007 ~120 hour total time. Second IMC-IFR cross country APR 2008. Both cross coutries were from MYR to PHN. In July we had the typical summer T-Storm flare-up to worry about. In April I was crossing the mountains at 6000 in light rain with the freezing level at 8000 keeping me from going higher.
ATC -"216JA turn heading 300 direct Briggs WHEN ABLE".
I interpet since Briggs is not on the flight plan that ATC has me turning west to pass behind a storm cell. Once I have determined a course to Briggs go direct. That will keep me clear of the weather.
What I now understand that ATC phrase to mean. Turn heading 300 when weather allows go direct to Briggs.
Similar circumstances in April except the VOR was on my flight plan.
I do not remeber the term "WHEN ABLE" being discussed with my CFI's or in the Cessna/King course.
I would appreciate some expert direction on determining what I should do when I am in IMC, cannot see the weather picture and get a When Able instruction?
Thanks
Taking the ASF IFR Insights course on the internet I now know what it means and how my interpetation could have had serious consequences.
Background, PPL OCT 2006, IFR Training completed MAR 2007. First IMC-IFR cross country JUL 2007 ~120 hour total time. Second IMC-IFR cross country APR 2008. Both cross coutries were from MYR to PHN. In July we had the typical summer T-Storm flare-up to worry about. In April I was crossing the mountains at 6000 in light rain with the freezing level at 8000 keeping me from going higher.
ATC -"216JA turn heading 300 direct Briggs WHEN ABLE".
I interpet since Briggs is not on the flight plan that ATC has me turning west to pass behind a storm cell. Once I have determined a course to Briggs go direct. That will keep me clear of the weather.
What I now understand that ATC phrase to mean. Turn heading 300 when weather allows go direct to Briggs.
Similar circumstances in April except the VOR was on my flight plan.
I do not remeber the term "WHEN ABLE" being discussed with my CFI's or in the Cessna/King course.
I would appreciate some expert direction on determining what I should do when I am in IMC, cannot see the weather picture and get a When Able instruction?
Thanks