For IFR operations, what is the minimum fuel requirement for propeller aircraft when no alternate is required?

For IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations, the minimum fuel requirement for propeller aircraft when no alternate airport is required is indeed 45 minutes at cruise. This regulation ensures that a pilot has a sufficient fuel reserve to handle unforeseen circumstances that could arise during the flight, such as unexpected weather changes or air traffic delays.

The requirement to have fuel reserves beyond just reaching the destination is crucial for safety. By having enough fuel for an additional 45 minutes of flight, the aircraft has a buffer that can accommodate the need to hold in a pattern or to fly around weather, reducing the risk of running out of fuel in unforeseen scenarios. This operational standard is designed to protect both the aircraft and its occupants, contributing to overall aviation safety.