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VFR Cloud Clearances

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Subscriber question:

"When flying VFR through controlled airspace and ATC gives vectoring and altitude instructions that may require entering temporary cloudy conditions, what is the best way to advise ATC or handle the situation?" - Anonymous

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John:

VFR Cloud Clearances“Let’s review briefly the cloud clearance requirements and reasons for each. For the altitudes most of us fly, it is simple.

In general, when in Class E, D or C, you must remain 500 feet below, 2,000 feet laterally or 1,000 feet above any clouds. This is to allow an IFR aircraft popping out of the clouds sufficient time to see and avoid a VFR aircraft.

In Class B airspace, we merely have to remain clear of clouds. Because in a Class B, all traffic (both IFR and VFR) is under positive control of ATC.

None of this allows a VFR pilot to enter a cloud. If an ATC vector or altitude assignment will cause you to enter a cloud, you must promptly advise ATC that you are Unable due to weather and request an alternate clearance.”

(NEW) VFR Mastery scenario #96 “Hat Trick” is now available. Your mostly grown children go to college or work in three states across the midwest. Visiting one by car is a long drive both ways, but you can plan a loop trip in your Mooney and get all three with ease. It’s your spouse’s birthday soon and you concoct a plan to meet each kid for dinner over a long weekend as a birthday surprise—if the weather cooperates. It’s July and convection plus your lagging IFR proficiency makes VFR a must. Cells will move through over the next three days, but there should be a sequence of destinations and a set of routes that will make this plan work, right? Watch the Intro video.

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