Visual Flight Rules

From Pilots Almanac

Visual Flight Rules as outlined in Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations define the visual conditions in which legal flight may be made. This refers to flight with visual reference to outside points, although night flight in total darkness may still qualify.

Visual Flight Rules weather minimums vary based on altitude and airspace. VFR conditions are generally defined in terms of visual distance and separation from clouds. In Class E airspace below 10,000 feet MSL, VFR flight requires a minimum of three statute miles visibility and that the aircraft remain at least 2,000 feet away from clouds horizontally, at least 500 feet below clouds, and at least 1,000 feet above clouds. These same requirements exist in Class C and D airspace. In Class B, three miles visibility is required, but pilots need only remain clear of clouds (i.e. there is no minimum separation distance stipulated).

Conditions are considered to be marginal VFR (MVFR) if visibility is less than five statute miles, or the ceiling is less than 3,000 feet.

Only instrument-rated pilots and Airline Transport Pilots may act as pilot in command in non-VFR conditions.

See Special VFR.