VFR ceiling and visibility requirements for Class G airspace

This regulation sets weather minimums for helicopter air ambulance operations flying VFR in Class G airspace. The specific minimums are referenced in a table (not shown in the excerpt above) unless the operator's specifications say otherwise.

Certificate holders can establish "local flying areas" extending up to 50 nautical miles from designated locations. These areas must include easily identifiable terrain features and obstacles that pilots can use for visual navigation, and must account for the helicopters' capabilities and operating environment.

Before using a local flying area, pilots must pass a familiarity exam given by their company, valid for 12 calendar months. This ensures pilots know the terrain, obstacles, and landmarks well enough to navigate safely in the potentially lower visibility conditions permitted for these emergency medical operations.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*