IMC Uncertainties
I am an IMC rated PPL holder who is hoping to clear up a few uncertainties that I have regarding the rating. The way that I look upon the rating is that it provides greater piece of mind to the private pilot by increasing the priviledges of his/her licence. However where I am unlcear is how does flying under 'IFR' work with an IMC rated pilot?
I know the rating is restricted to the UK, however in what way is it practiced? Can you file IFR flight plans, even though you cannot fly in airways? Can you upgrade to IFR from VFR if the weather starts to get below VFR minima or if you need to decend through cloud to get into an airfield? What are the DH/MDH minimas for an IMC holder. For my test I was told to add 500 ft to the published minima + the Pressure Correction error for my aircraft. Does this still apply?
I would be grateful to anyone could help to clear up my issue. Many thanks