What are visual flight rules (VFR)?

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) are indeed regulations that allow pilots to operate aircraft in clear weather conditions, where visibility is sufficient for pilots to see where they are going and maintain visual reference to the ground. Under VFR, pilots are primarily responsible for ensuring their aircraft is flown safely without relying solely on instruments. This rule set emphasizes the ability to navigate and control the aircraft through direct visual cues, rather than instruments in conditions with good weather.

In VFR conditions, pilots must maintain a visual separation from clouds and other aircraft, and typically, they need to adhere to certain visibility and cloud clearance requirements to ensure safety in the airspace. VFR is a critical component for pilots, particularly for those flying smaller, general aviation aircraft, as it allows for a more flexible and often less regulated flying experience when the weather conditions meet visual criteria.