What does the term "VFR" refer to in aviation?

The term "VFR" refers to "Visual Flight Rules." In aviation, VFR is a set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to see where the aircraft is going. This means the pilot is able to navigate and control the aircraft by visual reference to the ground and other landmarks, rather than relying solely on instruments. VFR imposes certain minimum visibility and distance from clouds requirements that must be met to ensure the safety of flight under visual conditions.

Pilots flying under VFR must also maintain basic weather, visibility, and cloud clearance criteria, which are essential for safe navigation and operational decision-making. This contrasts with IFR, or Instrument Flight Rules, where pilots are required to fly using instruments and are often in controlled airspace. Understanding VFR is fundamental for pilots as it encompasses the operational conditions that allow for visual navigation and is essential for various flying activities, including recreational flying and flight training.