What is VFR flight following vs IFR?

VFR flight following allows you to fly VFR; however, it also provides ATC radar coverage and weather/traffic updates. It doesn't provide the same IFR protections, but it's pretty darn close. If you want the same ATC coverage as IFR, choosing to fly VFR with flight following isn't a bad option.



People Also Ask

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

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Flight following is a relatively simple concept – it's an aircraft flying under VFR that is taking advantage of Air Traffic Control (ATC) services. Functionally, it indicates the flight is radar identified by ATC and a number of advisories may be available from the controller.

MORE DETAILS

It's important to remember that VFR and IFR are sets of rules that apply both to pilots and airplanes. Some airplanes will be equipped to fly using both, but others are only VFR equipped. It's important to double-check your plane and make sure you are properly equipped.

MORE DETAILS

Prudent pilots typically set higher weather minimums for night VFR flights. FAR 91.157—In order to get a Special VFR clearance at night, you must have an instrument rating, an instrument-equipped airplane, 1 mile visibility, be able to remain clear of clouds, and a Special VFR clearance from air traffic control.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

: to utter a harsh abrupt scream. 2. : to complain or protest loudly or vehemently. opponents of the bill squawked.

MORE DETAILS

Pilots may request to terminate VFR Flight Following. ATC may deny the request while in controlled airspace to ensure positive separation. ATC will automatically terminate VFR Flight Following when the aircraft arrives at its destination.

MORE DETAILS

You will need at least a radio and a transponder to get flight following. The requirement for a radio is self-evident. The transponder isn't an absolute, cast-in-stone requirement, but in most cases ATC will not give you flight following if you don't have a transponder.

MORE DETAILS

If any problems occur with the engine or wings, the crew can see it out of those tiny round windows in a cabin. If the aircraft needs to be evacuated, passengers and the whole crew is able to see which side of the aircraft is safer for evacuation.

MORE DETAILS

If you are receiving flight following, you are automatically cleared to enter the outer ring of a TFR and to enter Class C or D airspace. However, there is one circumstance that flight following will not protect you from, and that is flying into Class B airspace.

MORE DETAILS

Planes have headlights so that pilots can see what is in front of them. Unfortunately, they are only effective during takeoffs and landings. Even with the slight illumination offered by the headlights, only darkness is visible when looking out the front window of a cockpit.

MORE DETAILS