VFR On Top

Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at 05:47 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Pilots clarified that VFR on Top can allow flight below MEA/MOCA in the U.S. if terrain clearance is assumed by the pilot (though not permitted in Canada), and that strong headwinds actually require a higher power setting to maintain glidepath.
Insights on mountain flying emphasized prudence, including accepting passenger "veto" authority, meticulous planning for challenging conditions like density altitude, and avoiding hasty decisions.
A reader questioned the practical utility of "power-on" stall training, suggesting more focus on "power-off" scenarios simulating engine loss.
An aircraft identification error was corrected, clarifying that the planes misidentified as T-38s were actually F-5s, a single-seat fighter variant.

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I just want to correct something in your “IFR Rules, VFR Tools” article (August 2022). On page 10 in the blue box, it says, “Of course, you must fly no lower than the published MEA or MOCA.”

Actually, one of the advantages of VFR on top is to be able to fly lower than the MEA or MOCA. You can get this if you request VFR on top at a VFR altitude and add the phrase “and I’ll be responsible for my own terrain clearance.”