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Do I have to maintain VFR cloud clearance requirements VFR on top?
MAINTAIN VFR‐ON‐TOP. Do not clear an aircraft to maintain “VFR‐on‐top” between sunset and sunrise to separate holding aircraft from each other or from en route aircraft unless restrictions are applied to ensure the appropriate IFR vertical separation.
What are VFR cloud clearances?
14 CFR § 91.155 – Basic VFR weather minimums.
| Airspace | Flight visibility | Distance from clouds |
|---|---|---|
| Day | 1/2 statute mile | Clear of clouds |
| Night, except as provided in § 91.155(b) | 1 statute mile | Clear of clouds. |
| More than 1,200 feet above the surface but less than 10,000 feet MSL | ||
| Day | 1 statute mile | 500 feet below. |
What is a VFR on top clearance?
“A VFR-on-top clearance allows a pilot to climb through a cloud layer or some other condition of less than basic Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC). Additionally, the ATC clearance may contain alternate instructions if VFR-on-top is not reached by a specified altitude.
What is cloud clearances?
“Let’s review briefly the cloud clearance requirements and reasons for each. In general, when in Class E, D or C, you must remain 500 feet below, 2,000 feet laterally or 1,000 feet above any clouds. This is to allow an IFR aircraft popping out of the clouds sufficient time to see and avoid a VFR aircraft.
Is VFR on top still IFR?
VFR-On-Top is NOT a cancellation of IFR flight plan. You must still adhere to ATC directions. If you can’t stay VFR you must request an IFR altitude from ATC.
Why do cloud clearances jump at or above 10 00 feet?
Why Do the Rules Change at 10,000 feet MSL? The distance and visibility requirements change at 10,000 feet has to do with aviation speed limits. Above 10,000 feet, pilots may travel at any speed they wish up to Mach 1 (unless air-traffic control has issued a speed restriction).
Can VFR fly above scattered clouds?
“The short answer is yes. You may legally fly on top as long as you can maintain the appropriate VFR cloud clearances. The only regulatory restriction is that student pilots are not allowed to fly above a cloud layer without ground reference.
What is the difference between VFR Over-the-top and VfR at low altitudes?
It allows the pilot to change altitudes, provided VFR cloud clearances are maintained. VFR over-the-top, on the other hand, does not require an instrument rating or any kind of clearance or flight plan. The only regulatory restriction is that student pilots are not allowed to fly above a cloud layer without ground reference.
Can VFR pilots fly through thin clouds?
It’s an easy temptation for VFR pilots to fly through or around thin cloud layers, and it’s rare for pilots to get busted by the FAA for breaking cloud clearance requirements. After all, there’s no such thing as sky police on the lookout for you.
What are the weather minimums for VfR?
If you’re flying in Class E or G airspace, your visibility requirement above 10,000′ MSL is 5SM, day or night. You’ll also need to stay 1SM horizontally from, 1,000′ above, and 1,000′ below clouds. VFR weather minimums are there for your safety, and the safety of every other pilot and passenger flying.
What is the difference between IFR and VFR traffic?
IFR traffic is controlled by ATC, so weather and speed restrictions make sure that IFR and VFR aircraft can see and avoid each other. It’s an easy temptation for VFR pilots to fly through or around thin cloud layers, and it’s rare for pilots to get busted by the FAA for breaking cloud clearance requirements.