When is a pilot not required to cancel IFR clearance?

A pilot is not required to cancel an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) clearance when landing at an airport with a functional control tower because the tower controllers manage the airspace and can see the aircraft's landing and approach. In such cases, the controller typically expects the cancellation of the IFR clearance to be communicated following landing. The expectation is that the tower will maintain visual contact with the aircraft and can provide any necessary instructions or clearances.

In contrast, in scenarios like flying below 10,000 feet or above a certain altitude, or when operating in visual conditions, there are varying levels of pilot responsibility regarding IFR clearance cancellation. For example, in certain visual conditions, particularly when flying under VFR (Visual Flight Rules), the pilot may need to cancel IFR to continue safely under visual conditions. However, the specific requirement to cancel IFR clearances is less stringent when an airport control tower is involved, as they are equipped to manage communication and operations effectively within their airspace.