When flying under an IFR flight plan, what must the pilot do to request a contact approach?

The correct answer emphasizes that to request a contact approach while flying under an IFR flight plan, visibility must be at least 1 statute mile, and the pilot must be clear of clouds. This guideline is crucial because a contact approach allows pilots to navigate visually to the airport, even when conditions may not allow for a full instrument approach.

By ensuring that the pilot has at least 1 statute mile of visibility and is not obstructed by clouds, it allows for safe visual references to be used for the landing while still operating under instrument flight rules. This condition serves to maintain safety, as visual cues are essential when transitioning from instrument to visual flight.

The requirement for communication with the airport tower, distance from the airfield, and altitude restrictions play roles in other aspects of flying but do not directly address the specific criteria outlined for initiating a contact approach. Therefore, the emphasis on visibility and cloud clearance is paramount for executing a safe and effective contact approach maneuver.