New move follows permission being given to Vulcan to operate under daytime IFR rules and in IMC.

The CAA has confirmed it is engaging with the Light Aircraft Association to enable amateur-built and ex-type certified Permit aircraft to operate under daytime IFR and in IMC.

It says that moves to relieve the day/VFR limitation would be on a by-aircraft basis, having agreed airworthiness characteristics and suitable equipment.

The move follows permission being given to Vulcan XH558 to operate under daytime IFR rules and in IMC. It will become the first UK aircraft with a Permit to Fly to be allowed to operate under daytime IFR and in IMC, overturning the previous blanket VFR restriction on all ‘Permit’ aircraft.

Built in 1960, the Vulcan was designed from the outset to operate at high level in all-weather conditions and with a fatigue-limited airframe not suited to turbulence levels associated with low-level operation.

XH558 will now be able to operate at altitudes and under flight rules which permit greater degree of safety, fuel efficiency and longevity.

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