Visual Flight Rules

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) are the set of regulations governing flight conducted by visual reference to the ground, horizon, and landmarks. VFR flight is permitted only when weather conditions meet minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements (VMC).

• Basic VFR weather minima: 3 SM visibility, 500 ft below / 1,000 ft above / 2,000 ft horizontal from clouds (varies by airspace)
• Pilot must maintain visual reference to terrain at all times
• Navigation is primarily visual, supplemented by GPS and navaids
• VFR flights may operate without ATC clearance in Class E and G airspace
• ATC clearance required in Class B, C, and D airspace
• Special VFR: Allows operation in Class B/C/D with visibility as low as 1 SM (with ATC clearance)
• VFR is not permitted in Class A airspace (IFR only)