Preventing and controlling inadvertent IFR (instrument flight rule encounters).

Inadvertent instrument flight rules (IFR) encounters are some of the most harrying conditions a pilot can experience. They also result in the highest percentage of death from helicopter crashes. Yet, inadvertent IFR can be prevented to some degree, and if encountered, it can be conquered and survived. Pilots must have strong identities but also must follow strict rules as to when they can and cannot fly. Training, such as following the "four Cs"--control, climb, course and confess--and instruments can bring pilots through inadvertent IFR successfully, but legal questions remain.