Air traffic control tower at night [Credit: Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
Special VFR (SVFR) allows non-instrument rated private pilots to operate into or out of an airport in controlled airspace with less than standard VFR minimums, provided ground visibility is at least 1 statute mile and they remain clear of clouds.
Pilots must explicitly request SVFR from air traffic control and confirm their ability to remain clear of clouds, as ATC cannot offer it.
Night SVFR operations have stricter requirements, mandating an instrument-rated pilot and an instrument-equipped aircraft.
SVFR is not permitted at all airports; pilots should consult FAR 91, Appendix D, Section 3 for a list of exceptions.
Question: I am a private pilot without an instrument rating. I learned about Special VFR (SVFR) in ground school, but I am wondering if anyone really uses it? Why not just go IFR?
Answer: Special VFR is a way for a person with a private pilot certificate but not an instrument rating to get into or out of an airport.
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Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.
