Do helicopters fly VFR or IFR?

In many cases, helicopters are certificated for IFR operations with either one or two pilots. Certain equipment is required to be installed and functional for two pilot operations, and typically, additional equipment is required for single pilot operation.



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§91.157 - Special VFR weather minimums. Helicopters are able to request special VFR (SVFR) during day and night even when the visibility is less than 1 mile.

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A helicopter instrument rating is beneficial for any pilot. The instrument rating allows pilots to operate IFR equipment helicopters in adverse weather conditions. The IFR training is often included during a portion of the commercial helicopter training.

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The simple answer is yes. Most helicopters are equipped to safely and legally operate in IMC. Typically only the lower end of the helicopter community fly helicopters without the required equipment. How long does it take a helicopter to fly 100 miles?

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In many cases, helicopters are certificated for IFR operations with either one or two pilots. Certain equipment is required to be installed and functional for two pilot operations, and typically, additional equipment is required for single pilot operation.

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This brings us to IFR (instrument flight rule) pilots. IFR flying is astronomically more challenging than VFR flying, but those pilots who achieve this distinction are invariably more equipped to fly IFR and VFR. Aviating under IFR, a pilot is authorized to fly into clouds in what is called zero visibility.

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Many pilots prefer IFR over VFR because they can fly regardless of the weather conditions. They aren't constrained by the VFR minimums you saw above. Also, IFR flying, with enough practice, makes navigation much simpler. It is as easy as following a line from A to B.

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The FAA treats large airplanes the same as any other airplane when it comes to VFR flight. They are required to maintain the same distance from clouds, only fly with the same minimum visibility, see and avoid other aircraft, etc.

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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.

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Class A. IFR flights only are permitted, all flights are provided with air traffic control service and are separated from each other. Class B. IFR and VFR flights are permitted, all flights are provided with air traffic control service and are separated from each other.

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Flight in Class A airspace requires pilots and aircraft to be instrument equipped and rated and to be operating under instrument flight rules (IFR). In many countries commercial airliners and their pilots must operate under IFR as the majority of flights enter Class A airspace.

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If there is any question of weather, you can (and should) retain your IFR clearance until on the ground and then cancel. However, there may be good reasons to cancel depending upon circumstances. For example somebody may be following you and cannot be cleared for the approach until you cancel your IFR clearance.

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