What does "VFR" stand for in aviation?

In aviation, "VFR" stands for Visual Flight Rules. This term refers to a set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to allow the pilot to see where the aircraft is going. Under VFR, pilots rely on visual references outside the aircraft rather than relying solely on instruments.

When flying VFR, the pilot must maintain certain minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements, which allows for greater flexibility in navigation, as pilots can make decisions based on visual cues like terrain and landmarks. VFR is commonly used in conditions of good weather, making it essential for pilots who prefer to fly by sight rather than solely relying on instruments.

The concept of VFR is foundational in flying, as it differentiates it from IFR, or Instrument Flight Rules, which is used when weather conditions do not permit visual navigation. Understanding VFR is crucial for pilots, as it affects flight planning, route selection, and communication with air traffic control.