- Visual Flight Rules -

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) are flown mostly by general aviation aircraft flying in Visual Meteorological Conditions, or VMC for short.

Flight Minimums

The minimum VMC requirements for a flight under VFR are dependent upon the airspace in which the flight will be carried out and the flight level or altitude within that airspace. Figure 1 below shows the basic VMC conditions (visibility) and separation required to maintain VFR flight safely. Other information regarding ATC and communications requirements are also shown.

(NOTE: these apply to UK airspace and may not follow in other countries).

Figure 1 Highlighting IMC minima for VFR

Minimum Altitude

VFR flights should be carried out at no less than 500ft above ground level (except when approaching for landing or taking off - obviously) or 1000 ft above ground level when overflying cities or within 600m of an obstacle.

When can VFR be flown ?

Basically, VFR can be flown at any time in the day when the meteorological conditions are at least those shown in the figures above.

VFR should not be flown at night as the lack of visual clues can cause you to lose spatial orientation and that could mean a VERY bumpy landing! (and the Boss coming after you with a very big stick!)

Flight Plans

When flying VFR in controlled airspace (B - E), it is essential that a flight plan is filed so ATC can issue clearances for safe operation.

A flight plan should also be filed if intending to fly over inhospitable areas -this will assist in search and rescue should a problem arise.

VFR or IFR?

This depends on the factors described in the first section; if the minimums can not be met for VFR, then IFR must be selected. If your flight progresses to a point where VFR cannot be maintained then you must state, to ATC, your intentions to change to IFR and file a flight plan.

At the end of the day, if the weather looks suspect for VFR, then don't take the risk unless the aircraft you intend to fly is suitable for IFR.

General

When flying in uncontrolled airspace (F - G) it is up to you, the pilot, to avoid other aircraft and obstacles and to ensure that you are maintaining VFR. See the section on collison avoidance (yet to be added).