What is the cardinal rule when flying in adverse weather?

The cardinal rule when flying in adverse weather is to never out-fly your visibility. This principle emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear line of sight and awareness of the aircraft's environment. When flying in poor weather conditions, such as fog, rain, or snow, visibility can be significantly reduced, leading to the inability to see other aircraft, obstacles, or changes in the terrain.

By ensuring that you do not out-fly your visibility, you are prioritizing safety and maintaining control of the aircraft based on the conditions you can reasonably navigate. This rule also reinforces the necessity of being able to respond to unexpected situations, such as sudden weather changes or the emergence of obstacles. Adhering to this rule is crucial for piloting decision-making in adverse weather and helps to prevent accidents caused by spatial disorientation or lack of situational awareness.