When can a VFR-on-top clearance be assigned by ATC?

ATC may not authorize VFR-on-top/VFR conditions operations unless the pilot requests the VFR operation or a clearance to operate in VFR conditions will result in noise abatement benefits where part of the IFR departure route does not conform to an FAA approved noise abatement route or altitude.



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VFR-on-Top Restrictions: VFR-on-top is not permitted in certain airspace areas, such as Class A airspace, certain restricted areas, etc. Consequently, IFR flights operating VFR-on-top will avoid such airspace.

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A VFR-On-Top clearance has its limitations. Here are a few you need to follow: Pilots may not fly below minimum en route IFR altitudes because you could crash into the terrain. Minimum en route altitudes exist regardless of IFR or VFR weather conditions and weather assigned a specific altitude or VFR conditions on top.

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

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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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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 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.

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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.

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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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