What does IMC stand for in aviation?

IMC stands for Instrument Meteorological Conditions in aviation. This term refers to weather conditions that are generally unfavorable for visual flight rules (VFR) operations, typically characterized by low visibility, cloud cover, and precipitation. When flying in IMC, pilots are required to rely solely on their instruments to navigate and control the aircraft since visual references outside the cockpit may be limited or non-existent.

Understanding IMC is crucial for pilots, as it necessitates proficiency in instrument flight rules (IFR) and adherence to specific operating procedures to ensure safety. In contrast, the other options do not apply to aviation; for instance, Isolated Mechanical Conditions and Internal Movement Calibration do not pertain to meteorological standards, whereas the International Maritime Code relates specifically to maritime law and not aviation practices.