What minimum fuel supply is required for an IFR flight?

For an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight, the regulations mandate a minimum fuel supply that ensures the aircraft can reach its destination safely and manage any potential contingencies. This includes flying to the most-distant alternate airport if necessary, in addition to a required reserve amount of fuel.

Having fuel to reach the destination ensures the pilot can complete the planned route. Including fuel for the most-distant alternate provides a safety margin in case the primary destination is unavailable due to weather or other operational issues. The additional reserve fuel is critical as it accounts for unforeseen circumstances, such as holding patterns or diversions, ensuring that the aircraft remains safe even in less-than-ideal situations.

Thus, the correct choice reflects best practices in flight safety and adherence to regulations, emphasizing the importance of having a comprehensive fuel strategy for IFR flights.