Isn't this 30 *minute* reserve rule for day VFR flight a bit odd?
Wouldn't a reserve rule that stated the minimum distance you could fly in calm air be a better rule?

Probably. But I don't see the (FAA) rules as being "the best idea",
just "a minimum standard". The pilot is (rightly) called upon to apply
intellegent decision making, rather than simply following rules and
expecting roses.

Jose
--
"Never trust anything that can think for itself, if you can't see where
it keeps its brain."
(chapter 10 of book 3 - Harry Potter).
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