VFR Weather Minimums: How to remember the distances and heights
VFR weather minimums are a set of figures that quickly become ingrained into the memory of every student pilot, until they take a test in which case they mysteriously evaporate.
Flying in CAVOK weather is fun and relaxing, but lacks challenges. At some point, every pilot will have to leave the nursery slopes and plan flights when the weather is far from ideal. The weight of responsiblity for deciding whether or not to fly can be lessened by knowing what the VFR weather minimums should be before you even leave the ground.
Understanding Airspace Categories
Before we review the specifics of VFR weather minimums, let’s remind ourselves of the airspace types and where they are usually designated. Obviously this is not a definitive guide and you should always check your latest manuals or the civil aviation authority website for the exact dimensions.
- Class A: VFR flights are not permitted here. IFR only.
- Class B: High-traffic areas around major airports.
- Class C: Surrounding regional airports.
- Class D: Surrounding smaller airports with control towers.
- Class E: General controlled airspace.
- Class G: Uncontrolled airspace.
Each of these categories has its own set of VFR weather minimums, which we’ll explore in the following sections.
The Main Principle of VFR Flights
The “See and Avoid” principle is the cornerstone of VFR flights. It mandates that pilots must always be vigilant in scanning for other aircraft and obstacles, taking evasive action when necessary. Your eyes are your primary tools for ensuring a safe flight. Electronic aids are designed to help with this task but they are neither 100% accurate nor reliable, and one also has to factor in the risk of misconfiguration on the part of the pilot.
So, maintaining a good lookout is as important today in the 21st Century as it was over a hundred years ago.
Fair-Weather Flying: For VFR pilots who want to improve their skills and flying enjoyment
Richard Taylor challenges you to venture outside the narrow channels of training days to get more out of your airplane and the time you spend in the air.
The author shows the VFR pilot and student how to “bite off chewable-size chunks of progressively more demanding situations,” accepting a little more crosswind, a little more turbulence, a little less runway.
The 3 152’s (three one five two’s)
What are the 3 152’s?
The “3 152’s” is a memory aid for VFR weather minimums applicable in controlled airspace during the day and night, as well as uncontrolled airspace at night. These are:
- 3 SM visibility: You must have at least 3 statute miles of visibility.
- 1,000′ above clouds: Maintain a minimum of 1,000 feet above any cloud formation.
- 500′ below clouds: Stay at least 500 feet below any cloud formation.
- 2,000′ horizontally from clouds: Keep a horizontal distance of at least 2,000 feet from any cloud.
Why are the 3 152’s Important?
Understanding and following the 3 152’s is crucial for safe navigation and compliance with aviation regulations. It ensures that you maintain sufficient distance from cloud formations and other aircraft.
The 5 F-111’s: Navigating Above 10,000 MSL
What are the 5 F-111’s?
When you’re flying in controlled airspace above 10,000 feet MSL, remember the “5 F-111’s”:
- 5 SM visibility: A minimum of 5 statute miles of visibility is required.
- 1,000′ above clouds: Keep at least 1,000 feet above any cloud formation.
- 1,000′ below clouds: Stay at least 1,000 feet below any cloud formation.
- 1 SM horizontally from clouds: Maintain a horizontal distance of at least 1 statute mile from any cloud.
Why are the 5 F-111’s Important?
Flying at higher altitudes comes with its own set of challenges, including reduced air pressure and oxygen levels. The 5 F-111’s ensure that you have ample visibility and distance from clouds, which is vital for safe flight at these elevations.
VFR Weather Minimums Chart
For a quick reference, here’s a VFR weather minimums chart that summarises the requirements for each airspace category:
| Airspace Category | Visibility (SM) | Above Clouds (ft) | Below Clouds (ft) | Horizontally from Clouds (ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class B | 3 | 1,000 | 500 | 2,000 |
| Class C | 3 | 1,000 | 500 | 2,000 |
| Class D | 3 | 1,000 | 500 | 2,000 |
| Class E | 3 | 1,000 | 500 | 2,000 |
| Class G | 3 | 1,000 | 500 | 2,000 |
| Above 10,000 MSL | 5 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 1 SM |
FAQs About VFR Weather Minimums
- What are VFR weather minimums?
- VFR weather minimums are the minimum visibility and distance from clouds that a pilot must maintain while flying under Visual Flight Rules.
- How to remember VFR weather minimums?
- Use the memory aids “3 152’s” for controlled and uncontrolled airspace and “5 F-111’s” for flying above 10,000 feet MSL.
- What are the VFR weather minimums for student pilots?
- The same VFR weather minimums apply to student pilots, but additional restrictions may be imposed by their flight instructors.
History of VFR Flight Rules
The concept of VFR dates back to the early days of aviation. However, it was the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States that formalised these rules in the 1950s. The aim was to standardise flight rules across the country and improve aviation safety. Over the years, these rules have been adapted and adopted by various aviation authorities worldwide, including the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK.
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to VFR weather minimums. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or an aviation enthusiast looking to get your wings, understanding these minimums is crucial for a safe and enjoyable flying experience.
