Crazy UK IFR definition
It's been said many times here, but I'll say it again...
The UK definition of IFR is all about flight 1000' above any obstruction within 5NM of track, except when landing and taking off in accordance with normal aviation practice (Oh, and a bit about it's a good idea to comply with the quadrantal rule above 3000') There's NOTHING in the UK definition about 'sole reference to instruments' or the Met conditions that may exist.
I think the UK should re-define the definition to mean 'by sole reference to instruments', i.e. you're not looking out the window even if it's a nice day and what qualification or rating you need to be able to do so. So, flight 1000' above obstacles etc willl STILL be VFR if conducted in VMC.
I'd say 90% of my flying in the past 26 years has been IFR, most of it in VMC and not requiring me to exercise the privileges of any kind of instrument rating. Of course, it's been in Class 'G' airspace...
Perhaps EASA will tidy this one up to our benefit.
TheOddOne