VFR Weather Minima

The guidance outlines the visibility and cloud clearance requirements for pilots operating under VFR. It specifies minimum visibility conditions based on altitude and class of airspace, detailing the necessary horizontal and vertical distances from clouds. Pilots must ensure they have clear sightlines to the ground and maintain adequate airspeed for safe operation to avoid obstacles and other traffic.

Key points

• Pilots must adhere to specific visibility requirements based on altitude and airspace class.
• Minimum visibility is 8 km at higher altitudes, reducing to 5 km below 3050 m.
• A horizontal clearance of 1500 m and a vertical clearance of 300 m from clouds is necessary.
• Special VFR conditions apply when standard minimums cannot be met, requiring ATC clearance.
• VFR flights must avoid operating below minimum safe heights unless for takeoff or landing.

*Plain-English summary of General Civil Aviation Authority (UAE) guidance — always consult the official source (linked above) for current, authoritative requirements.*