What should pilots do when transitioning from visual to instrument flight conditions?

When transitioning from visual to instrument flight conditions, it's critical for pilots to understand that relying solely on instruments from the start is necessary for safety and effective navigation. Instrument flight conditions often involve low visibility, where the visual references that a pilot might normally use are not available. By focusing exclusively on instruments, pilots can ensure they maintain control of the aircraft and follow the prescribed flight paths, altitudes, and other vital data necessary for safe operation.

While maintaining visual references as long as possible and using a combination of visual and instrument flight might seem practical, doing so can lead to confusion or misjudgment about aircraft attitude and navigation when visibility becomes poor. Therefore, establishing a complete reliance on instruments immediately when transitioning to instrument conditions is essential to avoid spatial disorientation and ensure adherence to flight regulations.