Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) – Canadian Flight Trainers

Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) are meteorological conditions expressed in terms of visibility, distance from cloud, and ceiling equal to or better than specified minima. VMC defines the threshold at which VFR flight is permitted; conditions below VMC are instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).

VMC Minima by Airspace

Class A: VMC not applicable — IFR only
Class B (12,500–18,000 ft): 3 SM; 500 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 1 SM horizontally from cloud
Class C/D (controlled below 10,000 ft): Ceiling ≥ 1,000 ft, visibility ≥ 3 SM; 500 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 2,000 ft horizontal from cloud
Class G at/above 1,000 ft AGL (below 10,000 ft): 1 SM, clear of cloud
Class G below 1,000 ft AGL: 2 SM, 500 ft below, 1,000 ft above, 2,000 ft horizontal

VMC vs. SVFR vs. IMC

VMC allows full VFR operations. SVFR (Special VFR) allows operations in a control zone with reduced minimums by ATC authorization. IMC (below VMC minima) requires IFR.

VMC Minima by Airspace

VMC vs. SVFR vs. IMC

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