Which sequence correctly lists the three corrective actions in their proper order?

• A. Announce Inadvertent IMC → Establish Instrument Scan → Establish Safe Altitude, Airspeed, and Heading
• B. Establish Instrument Scan → Announce Inadvertent IMC → Establish Safe Altitude, Airspeed, and Heading
• C. Establish Safe Altitude, Airspeed, and Heading → Announce Inadvertent IMC → Establish Instrument Scan
• D. Announce Inadvertent IMC → Establish Safe Altitude, Airspeed, and Heading → Establish Instrument Scan

Answer: (A)

Recovering from an inadvertent IMC hinges on a disciplined sequence to quickly restore orientation and control. First, announce inadvertent IMC to alert the crew and trigger standardized actions. Next, establish an instrument scan to reorient yourself using the cockpit instruments since visual references are unreliable. Only after you’ve regained reliable attitude, airspeed, and heading do you set the flight to a safe configuration by establishing safe altitude, airspeed, and heading. Initiating the instrument scan before alerting or trying to set a safe configuration prior to reorientation can leave you without the necessary situational awareness to maintain control and prevent a hazardous situation.