What conditions define Visual Flight Rules (VFR)?

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) are established to ensure that pilots can fly in weather conditions that allow for visual navigation. Pilots must be able to see the horizon and navigate visually, rather than relying solely on instruments.

To operate under VFR, the criteria generally require a minimum ceiling and visibility. Specifically, a ceiling greater than 3,000 feet and visibility greater than 5 miles provides the necessary conditions for pilots to judge distances, avoid obstacles, and maintain situational awareness. These conditions are essential for safe visual navigation and maneuvering in the airspace.

Conditions that are less than these requirements, such as a ceiling lower than 1,000 feet or visibility less than 3 miles, would typically result in a VFR flight being unsafe, requiring transitions to instrument flight rules (IFR) when conditions are poor. Coastal weather and humidity, while significant for forecasting and flight planning, do not define VFR parameters. Ground visibility alone cannot fully determine VFR since it must be considered alongside cloud ceiling conditions as well.