Visual Flight Procedures

Definition

Visual Flight Procedures refer to the standard operating practices and navigation techniques used by pilots flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). These procedures govern how aircraft are flown using visual reference to the ground, terrain, horizon, and other traffic, rather than relying solely on instruments. They ensure safe, legal, and efficient flight operations in both controlled and uncontrolled airspace during VMC (Visual Meteorological Conditions).

Purpose

Maintain safe separation through pilot “see and avoid”
Ensure predictable aircraft movement for other pilots and ATC
Provide structure for departures, arrivals, and enroute navigation
Support airspace integration without reliance on instrument procedures

Key Elements of Visual Flight Procedures

Element	Description
Departure and arrival routes	Use of visual reporting points (VRPs) and circuit entry points to standardize traffic flow
Traffic pattern (circuit)	Standard left- or right-hand pattern flown at published altitude (typically 1000 ft AGL)
Overhead joins	Standard method of entering circuit by overflying the runway before descending
Position reporting	Pilots announce position, altitude, and intentions on traffic or FIS frequency
Right-of-way rules	Specific priority rules for converging traffic, landing aircraft, and gliders
Avoidance procedures	Minimum separation from terrain, clouds, and restricted airspace
Altitude selection	Use of semi-circular rule (e.g., odd/even altitudes based on track)

Standard VFR Altitudes (Semi-Circular Rule)

Track	Altitude + 500 ft
000°–179°	3500 ft, 5500 ft, 7500 ft
180°–359°	4500 ft, 6500 ft, 8500 ft

Applies primarily in uncontrolled or advisory airspace.

Typical Visual Procedure Example (Arrival)

Contact FIS or Tower
Report at visual reporting point (e.g., Sierra)
Enter circuit pattern at circuit altitude
Report downwind, base, and final
Land and vacate as instructed or per standard procedure

Phraseology Examples

“OE-XYZ, over point November at 2500 feet, inbound for landing.”
“Joining left downwind runway 27.”
“Final runway 09, full stop.”
“Departing VFR to the east at 3000 feet.”

Pilotage: Navigation by visual landmarks and ground features
Dead reckoning: Use of heading, time, and airspeed
Chart reading: Using VFR sectional or ICAO 1:500,000 charts
Clock–Compass–Ground method: Cross-referencing time, heading, and visual references

Pilot Responsibilities under VFR

✅ Remain clear of cloud and maintain required visibility
✅ Follow ATC instructions in controlled airspace
✅ Avoid prohibited, restricted, and dangerous areas
✅ Maintain visual contact with terrain and traffic
✅ Comply with noise abatement and local procedures