Approach/departure IFR transitions

This regulation sets weather minimums for helicopter operations transitioning between IFR and VFR flight during approaches and departures under Part 135.

For approaches: When transitioning from IFR to VFR after an instrument approach, the required weather depends on distance from the missed approach point to the landing area. For Point-in-Space approaches with "Proceed VFR" segments where this distance is 1 NM or less, you need 1 statute mile visibility and the charted ceiling. For distances of 3 NM or less, you need at least 600-foot ceilings with 2 miles visibility (day) or 3 miles (night). Beyond 3 NM, standard VFR minimums for that airspace class apply.

For departures: When departing VFR and transitioning to IFR, you can use the same reduced minimums from the approach section if you follow an FAA-approved obstacle departure procedure and receive your IFR clearance within 3 NM of departure. Otherwise, standard VFR minimums apply.

*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.*