What should all IFR departures prioritize regarding turns?

Prioritizing turns during IFR departures is crucial for maintaining safety and ensuring proper aircraft performance. Delaying all turns until at least 400 feet above the runway end is the correct approach because it allows the aircraft to gain sufficient altitude and airspeed, both of which are vital during the early stages of flight. This altitude ensures that the aircraft is well beyond the vicinity of potential obstacles and can execute a safe climb.

At 400 feet, the aircraft is typically transitioning from the ground effect (which affects lift and performance) and can safely maneuver without the immediate risks associated with turning at lower altitudes. Furthermore, this procedure facilitates the adherence to standard departure procedures which are designed to maintain safe terrain clearance.

In contrast, earlier turning at lower altitudes, such as 200 or 300 feet, may increase the risk of a stall or controlled flight into terrain, particularly if the aircraft does not have the necessary speed and performance parameters. Thus, the recommendation to delay turns until 400 feet optimizes safety by ensuring that the aircraft is in a more stable, manageable flight envelope during the critical phases of departure.