Plain English Meaning

These are the things a pilot is expected to do during the middle part of an IFR flight — between climbing out and starting the approach. It covers talking to ATC, staying on the cleared route, reporting position when required, and letting controllers know about anything that affects the flight.

Full Definition

The standardized actions, communications, and reporting requirements a pilot performs during the cruise portion of an IFR flight — that is, after departure climb-out and before arrival. En route procedures include making required position reports, complying with ATC clearances and route changes, monitoring the assigned frequency, navigating along the cleared route, and reporting items such as changes, , malfunctions, and inability to the cleared altitude or .