LOFT 6: Reno to Medford
Mountain crossing IFR through the Cascades with icing and low visibility.
View FAA WINGS activity on FAASafety.gov →Scenario Overview
Mountain crossing IFR through the Cascades and Siskiyou range with an active icing AIRMET and lowering ceilings at destination. The pilot must evaluate icing risk, manage anti-ice systems, and decide whether to continue to Medford or divert.
Complete this LOFT with one of our CFIIs to earn WINGS credit toward your pilot proficiency. Learn more at FAASafety.gov
Route & Flight Plan
ATC Audio Practice
Real ATC recordings from LiveATC. Practice extracting weather from ATIS and copying IFR clearances at real-world cadence. Learn IFR clearance techniques
These are actual recordings from airport frequencies. The weather, routing, and clearances will differ from the planned scenario — the training value is in listening proficiency and ATC communication cadence.
ATIS
Reno-Tahoe ATIS — high-elevation mountain airport with Sierra weather conditions
IFR Clearances
IFR clearance with SID assignment — RENO TWO departure plus an amended clearance. Practice recognizing when ATC changes your route after initial clearance
Airport Information
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 17R/35L | 11,001 ft | asphalt |
| 17L/35R | 9,000 ft | asphalt |
| 08/26 | 6,102 ft | asphalt |
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 14/32 | 8,800 ft | asphalt |
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 17L/35R | 13,500 ft | asphalt |
| 17R/35L | 11,022 ft | asphalt |
| 13/31 | 8,270 ft | asphalt |
Weather Scenario
A Pacific frontal system is pushing inland over southern Oregon. The freezing level is at 6,500 feet MSL, but MEAs along the route require flight at 10,000-12,000 feet through icing conditions. PIREPs report light to moderate rime icing between 7,000 and 11,000 feet. TAFs valid from 1200Z show progressive deterioration at Medford through the 1700-1900Z arrival window.
Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts
Lesson Profile
| Phase | Time | Altitude | Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Briefing & Setup | 0:00-0:15 | Ground | Review icing AIRMETs, PIREPs, freezing level analysis. Discuss ice protection limitations of the aircraft. Brief alternate options. |
| Departure | 0:15-0:30 | 4,415-12,000 | Depart KRNO RWY 35L. Climb through scattered layers. Enter icing conditions passing through 7,000 feet. Activate anti-ice. |
| Enroute - Icing | 0:30-0:55 | 12,000 | Light rime icing accumulation. Instructor injects moderate icing PIREP ahead. Evaluate altitude change versus terrain. Request higher altitude or pilot report. |
| Enroute - Decision Point | 0:55-1:15 | 12,000 | Updated KMFR weather shows deteriorating conditions. Evaluate minimums versus forecast. Divert decision or continue with alternate plan. |
| Approach | 1:15-1:40 | 12,000-1,335 | ILS RWY 14 at KMFR. Break out near minimums. Gusty crosswind. Contaminated runway possible. |
| Debrief | 1:40-2:00 | Ground | Review icing decision-making, altitude management in mountains, approach to minimums technique. |
Post-LOFT Approach Practice
After the LOFT scenario concludes, practice 2 additional approaches for a total of 3 per session. Session is planned for up to 6 approaches — ask your CFII for additional practice.
Training Objectives
Proficiency
- Evaluate icing conditions and make altitude requests
- Navigate high MEA airways through mountainous terrain
- Execute ILS RWY 14 approach at Medford
Progress
- Interpret icing PIREPs and AIRMETs
- Manage altitude versus icing tradeoffs in mountains
- Apply freezing level analysis to route planning
Single-Pilot CRM
- Communicate icing encounters to ATC and request altitude changes
- Manage single-pilot workload during icing conditions
- Make timely diversion decisions based on icing accumulation
Prepare for Your Session
What are the icing limitations of a Cessna 172 or similar non-FIKI aircraft?
What is the relationship between MEA and freezing level in mountain icing scenarios?
What are the ILS RWY 14 minimums at Medford?
When should you divert rather than attempt the approach at a deteriorating destination?
How do you report icing to ATC?
Instructor Notes
Related IFR Training Guides
Deepen your understanding of the skills practiced in this scenario
Mastering Climb Gradients for IFR Departures
Calculate and fly departure climb gradients — obstacle clearance and terrain awareness.
How to Brief a Jeppesen Approach Plate
Step-by-step Jeppesen chart briefing checklist used by airline pilots.
How Should You Fly an Instrument Approach?
Technique and standards for flying stable, safe instrument approaches.
Questions? Text us at +1 (347) 450-7519 or email hello@aviator.nyc