Do you know the difference between Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)? In the past, pilots often relied on VFR. Thanks to modern advancements in aviation, however, many pilots now use IFR. For a better understanding of VFR and IFR and how they differ, keep reading.
What Is VFR?
VFR is a form of flight navigation in which pilots use what they can see outside of the cockpit to navigate. It requires good visibility — typically a minimum of three miles. If there’s heavy fog, clouds or other conditions that decrease visibility, VFR may not be an option.
Pilots have used VFR since the early days of aviation. It doesn’t require any special equipment. While pilots may use GPS or other technologies for assistance, VFR is characterized by its visual-based approach to navigation. It involves visually scanning the horizon, terrain and buildings to navigate the airplane.
What Is IFR?
IFR is a form of flight navigation that involves the use of instruments to navigate. Rather than simply looking outside the cockpit, pilots use instruments in the cockpit. These instruments provide essential information about the airplane’s altitude, speed and position, which pilots use to navigate.
Common types of flight instruments used for IFR include the following:
- Airspeed indicator
- Altimeter
- Turn coordinator
- Heading indicator
- Altitude indicator
- Vertical speed indicator
- Techometer
- Gyros
- Balance indicator
- Turn-and-slip indicator
Key Differences Between VFR and IFR
VFR and IFR serve the same purpose of allowing pilots to navigate the skies, but there are some key differences between them. In poor or low visibility, for instance, pilots will typically use IFR. They may struggle to see outside of the cockpit, making VFR difficult if not impossible. Using flight instruments, though, pilots can safely navigate with limited visibility.
Pilots also use IFR at high altitudes. When flying above 18,000 feet, most pilots rely on IFR. High altitudes such as this make it difficult to navigate visually due to the cloud coverage. Low-level clouds are often found at around 6,500 feet. As airplanes climb to higher altitudes, they may fly above these clouds. IFR ensures that pilots can navigate while flying above clouds.
IFR always requires clearance from Air Traffic Control (ATC). Before taking off, pilots must contact and receive clearance from ATC. VFR, on the other hand, may or may not require ATC clearance.
Non-commercial pilots can typically fly via VFR with only a private pilot certificate. To fly via IFR, in comparison, pilots need an instrument rating. An instrument rating is a certification that involves training on flight instruments. With an instrument rating, pilots can safely navigate using flight instruments.
