Do I need clearance for VFR over-the-top?

VFR-on-top is conducted by an instrument-rated pilot on an IFR flight plan. It allows the pilot to change altitudes, provided VFR cloud clearances are maintained. VFR over-the-top, on the other hand, does not require an instrument rating or any kind of clearance or flight plan.



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According to the FAA's Instrument Flying Handbook (IFH), pilots on IFR flight plans operating in VFR weather conditions may request VFR-on-top in lieu of an assigned altitude. This permits them to select an altitude or flight level of their choice (subject to any ATC restrictions).

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Inside controlled zones or airfields, VFR pilots have to receive an initial clearance. Usually, the VFR pilot will start his aircraft prior to contacting the controller. And he is ready to taxi. Be aware that some specific airfields do not allow this; please consult your charts.

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Why Do Pilots Prefer IFR Over VFR? IFR provides pilots with greater flexibility when it comes to controlled airspace, weather conditions, and career opportunities.

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An ATC clearance is required to enter and operate within Class B airspace. VFR pilots are provided sequencing and separation from other aircraft while operating within Class B airspace.

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VFR aircraft also must maintain a horizontal distance of 1sm from clouds while operating in Class E at and above 10,000ft. Below 10,000ft, the increase in TAS is reduced due to the lower altitudes. Therefore, the minimum forward flight visibility can be reduced from 5sm to 3sm.

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

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Yes. The autopilot, while often associated with IFR flight, really doesn't have anything to do with IFR or VFR flight. The autopilot's primary function is to relieve the pilot of the mundane, redundant, fatiguing effects of the constant minor control inputs that are required f...

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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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It states that for each degree off (or displacement) over a distance of 60 nautical miles (NM), it will result in 1 NM off course.

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ATC will not authorize VFR or VFR-on-top operations in Class A airspace.

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Once you get your private pilot certificate, you are qualified to fly under visual flight rules (VFR). Under VFR, you can navigate using visual references outside the aircraft, such as landmarks on the ground and the horizon. There are also distances from clouds you must maintain and visibility requirements as well.

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