FAR 135.217 IFR Takeoff Limitations. What is the limitation?

• A. Within 2 hours flying time at normal cruise speed if the weather conditions at the takeoff airport are below landing minimums.
• B. A takeoff alternate airport must be specified that is within 1 hours flying time at normal cruise speed if the weather conditions at the takeoff airport are below landing minimums.
• C. Not required if weather below landing minimums
• D. Within 30 minutes

Answer: (B)

When operating IFR under Part 135, if the weather at the takeoff airport is below landing minimums, you must designate a takeoff alternate within 1 hour flying time at normal cruise speed. This ensures there is a feasible place to land within the airplane’s reach if conditions don’t improve after takeoff. The alternate must have published instrument approach minima suitable for the aircraft, and you must be able to reach it within the specified one-hour flight time.

This limit isn’t 2 hours or 30 minutes, and the requirement doesn’t apply if the takeoff weather is at or above landing minimums. The takeoff alternate is a safety cushion built into the plan to handle adverse conditions that could prevent landing at the intended destination.