What do VFR rules require?

VFR, or Visual Flight Rules, require pilots to navigate and control their aircraft using outside visual references. This means that the pilot must maintain a clear visual line of sight to the terrain and other aircraft to fly safely. VFR is primarily designed for conditions where pilots can see and avoid obstacles and fulfill the requirement to maintain a specific distance from clouds and other aircraft, ensuring safety in visual flight conditions.

This rule is particularly important because it emphasizes the pilot's ability to see and interpret their environment, which is crucial for the safe operation of an aircraft without relying solely on instruments. Effective use of visual references allows pilots to gauge altitude, distance, and direction relative to ground features and other air traffic, providing vital situational awareness while flying.

In contrast, navigation using instruments is associated with IFR (Instrument Flight Rules), which applies when visibility is poor. Flying solely in poor weather conditions is not a requirement under VFR; instead, VFR is intended for good weather conditions. While pilots operating under VFR must also comply with ATC requests and instructions when applicable, this compliance does not negate the fundamental requirement of visually navigating and controlling the aircraft.