Special VFR Conditions

Special VFR (SVFR) conditions are meteorological conditions that are less than standard VFR minima but are above the weather required for an instrument approach. ATC may authorize Special VFR operations within a control zone when the pilot requests it and conditions permit.

Special VFR Requirements

• Pilot must request SVFR — ATC cannot initiate it
• The control zone must not be listed as a “no special VFR” zone in the CFS
• Visibility must be at least 1 SM
• The aircraft must remain clear of cloud
• At night, the pilot must hold an instrument rating and the aircraft must be IFR-equipped

What SVFR Permits

SVFR allows VFR-rated pilots to operate in a control zone when the ceiling is below 1,000 ft or visibility is between 1 and 3 SM — conditions that would otherwise be IFR. The pilot must maintain their own separation from cloud and terrain within the control zone.

Related Terms

See also: Control Zone, VFR, IMC.