What is a "visual flight rules" (VFR) flight?

A "visual flight rules" (VFR) flight is defined by the regulations that allow pilots to operate an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to see where the aircraft is going. This means that pilots can navigate and control the aircraft by visual reference to the ground and other landmarks rather than relying solely on instruments. The underlying principles of VFR flights emphasize the importance of being able to see the horizon and visual cues, which helps in maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safety in flight operations.

In VFR conditions, pilots must adhere to minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements to ensure safe flight. This category of flight is most suitable for daylight conditions with good weather, allowing for greater flexibility in navigation and operation. Pilots flying VFR must also remain vigilant about their surroundings and be prepared to change course or altitude if necessary.

In contrast, other options describe different types of flight regulations or conditions that do not align with the principles of VFR. Instrument flight rules (IFR) pertain to flying in cloud cover or low visibility, which relies heavily on navigational instruments rather than visual references. High altitude flights or those requiring IFR clearance may still occur, but they do not pertain to the definition of VFR, which centers specifically on visually clear conditions