Can student pilots fly VFR-on-top?


Can student pilots fly VFR-on-top? The only regulatory restriction is that student pilots are not allowed to fly above a cloud layer without ground reference. VFR over-the-top can be a very useful tool to get above a cloud layer instead of flying in haze or restricted visibility below the clouds.


When can you not fly VFR?

No person may operate an aircraft under basic VFR when the flight visibility is less, or at a distance from clouds that is less, than that prescribed for the corresponding altitude and class of airspace.


What are the VFR limitations for student pilots?

While the basic VFR weather minimums outlined in § 91.155 specify a minimum flight visibility of 1 statute mile and clear of clouds when 1,200 feet or less above the surface (AGL) in the daytime, the general student pilot limitations of § 61.89 do not permit student pilots to operate with less than 3 miles of flight or ...


What limitations do student pilots have?

General Limitations
  • That is carrying a passenger.
  • That is carrying property for compensation or hire.
  • For compensation or hire.
  • With a flight or surface visibility of less than 3 statute miles during daylight hours or 5 statute miles at night.
  • When the flight cannot be made with visual reference to the surface.


Can a solo student pilot request a special VFR clearance from ATC?

An SVFR clearance only permits the pilot to operate in substandard VFR weather minimums in the selected airspace. Once clear of that airspace, standard weather minimums apply. You also learned that a student pilot cannot request SVFR on a solo flight.


Can a student pilot fly over clouds?

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, student pilots are not allowed to fly above a cloud layer without a ground reference. This is because it is essential for student pilots to maintain visual contact with the ground at all times during their training period.


How high can you fly with VFR?

VFR pilots can fly between 3,000 to 18,000 ft.


Where is VFR-on-top prohibited?

VFR-on-top is not permitted in Class A airspace.


How far can a student pilot fly without an endorsement?

If repeated solo cross-country flights to an airport within 50 nautical miles are to be made over the same route, an endorsement to comply with 14 CFR 61.93(b)(2) is required in the student's logbook.