Inadvertent IMC corrective action: what is the initial action to take?

• A. Announce Inadvertent IMC
• B. Establish Instrument Scan
• C. Establish Safe Altitude, Airspeed, and Heading
• D. Contact ATC for radar assistance

Answer: (A)

When inadvertent IMC occurs, the top priority is to get the entire crew aware and aligned so you can transition to instrument flight without delay. The first action is to clearly announce that you have entered inadvertent IMC. This immediate communication ensures everyone understands the situation, prevents miscommunication, and prompts the crew to begin instrument-focused procedures together.

After the announcement, you would move into establishing instrument scan to regain situational awareness and control, and then set safe altitude, airspeed, and heading as you stabilize the aircraft. Coordinating with ATC for radar assistance or vectors can come next as needed, but the essential first step is making sure the crew knows what’s happening.