How did instrument flying transform aircraft operations?

The transformation of aircraft operations through instrument flying is best captured by the establishment of reliable instrument approaches and navigation aids. This development enabled pilots to fly in a wide range of weather conditions and low visibility situations that would have previously been deemed unsafe or impossible.

Prior to the advent of instrument flying, aviation was heavily reliant on visual flight rules (VFR), which necessitated clear visibility for pilots to navigate and conduct landings safely. With the implementation of instrument approaches, pilots began to rely on a variety of instruments and navigation aids (such as the Instrument Landing System, or ILS, and radar guidance) that allowed for safe landings and navigation even in adverse conditions.

This reliance on instruments not only improved safety but also enhanced the efficiency of flight operations, as pilots could now adhere to precise flight paths and procedures backed by technology. Thus, the establishment of these reliable approaches and aids fundamentally altered how flights were conducted, making air travel more reliable and accessible in varying weather scenarios.