Im Special. May I Come In?

In the scenario described at the top of this article, were trying to get back to home plate in 800 overcast and two miles, somewhere in the U.S. Its a good idea to get an IFR clearance to deal with that low of a ceiling. But what if the ceiling was 5000 overcast, or unlimited, with the same two miles of visibility? Youd still need a clearance to get home, but it doesnt have to be an IFR.

Editorial Staff

Monday, June 29, 2015 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Special VFR (SVFR) is an ATC clearance permitting operations in certain Class B, C, D, and E surface areas with reduced weather minima (one statute mile visibility and clear of clouds).
While useful in hazy or misty conditions, especially in the airport pattern, SVFR requires an instrument rating and a qualified aircraft between sunset and sunrise.
SVFR is unsuitable for very low ceilings and poor visibility where maintaining cloud clearance is difficult; a pop-up IFR clearance is often a safer choice in such scenarios.
Departing SVFR is an option if good VFR conditions are known to be immediately ahead, but not when continuous adverse weather is expected.

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In the scenario described at the top of this article, we’re trying to get back to home plate in 800 overcast and two miles, somewhere in the U.S. It’s a good idea to get an IFR clearance to deal with that low of a ceiling. But what if the ceiling was 5000 overcast, or unlimited, with the same two miles of visibility? You’d still need a clearance to get home, but it doesn’t have to be an IFR.