In aviation, visual flight rules (VFR) are a set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to allow the pilot to see where the aircraft is going.
Symbols shown are for World Aeronautical Charts (WAC), Sectional aeronautical charts and Terminal Area Charts (TAC). When a symbol is different on any VFR chart series, it will be annotated thus: WAC or Not shown on WAC.
VFR is short for 'visual flight rules', meaning the pilot primarily controls and navigates the aircraft using outside visual references. IFR stands for 'instrument flight rules'. The aircraft is flown using only the instruments with no visual references to the outside world.
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.
As a VFR pilot you are responsible for terrain avoidance and avoiding other aircraft. As long as the tower clears you for a straight-in approach, there is nothing to prevent you from flying the ILS. That being said, it is fairly difficult to watch for terrain and traffic while also watching the needles.
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.
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.
Why Do Pilots Prefer IFR Over VFR? IFR provides pilots with greater flexibility when it comes to controlled airspace, weather conditions, and career opportunities.