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In what publication is the 1,000′ ceiling and 3 miles visibility for VMC/VFR defined?

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1 Answers



  1. Kris Kortokrax on Apr 20, 2012

    VFR minima are outlined in 91.155.
     
    There is no hard and fast 1000 & 3 rule.
     
    Depends on controlled vs. uncontrolled airspace, 91.155 (c) requires a 1000 foot ceiling if operating below the ceiling in controlled airspace which goes to the surface (class B, C, D & E surface area).
     
    Outside these boundaries, in controlled airspace, you need to be 500 feet below the clouds.  Couple that with minimum altitude requirements in 91.119 (500 feet AGL over uncongested areas) and you get a minimum 1000 foot ceiling.
     
    In uncontrolled airspace (say below a transition area with a 700′ AGL base), during the day, you could be at 699′ AGL below a 700′ ceiling with 1 mile visibility and be legal for VFR flight.

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