Training Wheels,
I think I understand the concept of IFR in GAAP quite well. It is summed-up nicely in the ENR.
24.2 To aid in the provision of separation, ATC will determine the status
of operations in the GAAP CTR as follows:
a. Unrestricted VFR Operations
There are no weather related restrictions to aircraft operations.
IFR aircraft must operate to the VFR within the GAAP CTR.
b. Restricted VFR Operations
ATC may apply weather‐related restrictions to VFR operations
to facilitate the movement and separation of IFR aircraft. ATC
will then broadcast on the ATIS, “RESTRICTED VFR OPERATIONS”.
The actual restriction imposed may be specified individually
to aircraft, although general restrictions may be notified
on the ATIS; eg, “START APPROVAL REQUIRED”.
24.3 Arriving IFR aircraft which are visual outside the GAAP CTR, and
can continue visually, must operate VFR within the CTR (see para
31.5). IFR aircraft operating visually will only receive a traffic information
and sequencing service.
24.4 Arriving IFR aircraft which are not visual outside the GAAP CTR
may operate IFR within the CTR and separation will be provided
until the aircraft becomes visual.
24.5 Departing IFR aircraft must operate VFR within the GAAP CTR
until encountering IMC or leaving the GAAP CTR, whichever is the
sooner.
24.6 When aircraft are operating in conditions less than VMC, ATC will
provide separation within the GAAP CTR.
Walrus