Is there anyway to start a VFR flight and transition, in flight, to an IFR? If affirm, do I just need to create and file a flight plan while in the air and request clearance the same way that I do when I'm on the ground?

I'm confused regarding the way to proceed and help/clarification would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys

I have done that more than several times with good success in the Default ATC.. And VoxATC started out VFR , , then Created and Filed an IFR route afterwards....I suggest you just try it on whatever ATC package you have...your experience will be the quickest guide to further IFR flight, OR more educated questions.

 

Chas

The simple answer is Yes, you can.  How to do it will depend on the scenario you are flying.

If you are taking off with a filed VFR flight plan and decide during the flight you want to fly an IFR approach, then just ask ATC for the desired approach.  They will give you an IFR squawk code and you will be IFR for the remainder of the flight.  If you want to put the new clearance into Pilot2ATC so it displays on the map, you can, but DO NOT press the File button.  Only use the Validate button. 

 

As in the real world, when you change your flight plan with ATC verbally,  that automatically changes the filed flight plan.  You don't re-file it electronically.

 

Another scenario would be taking off VFR from an uncontrolled airport where you could not get your clearance on the ground because no ATC controllers were in range.  In that case, file your IFR plan as usual, take off VFR and then contact Departure or Approach control or an ATC Center to receive clearance after airborne.  Use the Freq button to the right of the map to find the nearest controller to call.

 

Dave

Ok great. I will try that. Thanks Dave!