If IFR clearance cannot be obtained, a flight may depart VFR provided:

• A. Wx at departure is at or above 1,000' ceiling and 3 SM vis
• B. Flight remains VMC operating under VFR until IFR clearance is obtained
• C. IFR clearance is obtained within 50 nm
• D. The flight can depart without any weather consideration

Answer: (B)

If you can’t obtain an IFR clearance, you may depart as long as you stay in visual meteorological conditions and operate under VFR until the IFR clearance is obtained. This means you must remain clear of clouds and maintain the required visibility for VFR, so you’re not flying into instrument conditions while waiting for clearance. The idea is to avoid entering IMC without a valid IFR clearance by keeping the flight in clear weather and under VFR control until ATC can grant the IFR clearance. Departing with weather that isn’t VFR, or assuming clearance will appear within a distance or without regard to weather, isn’t allowed, since safety requires you to remain in VMC and coordinate for IFR as soon as possible.