FAR DECODED — GLOSSARY

VISUAL APPROACH

Definition

VISUAL APPROACH

An approach conducted on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan which authorizes the pilot to proceed visually and clear of clouds to the airport. The pilot must, at all times, have either the airport or the preceding aircraft in sight. This approach must be authorized and under the control of the appropriate air traffic control facility. Reported weather at the airport must be: ceiling at or above 1,000 feet, and visibility of 3 miles or greater.

  • See: ICAO term VISUAL APPROACH

Source: FAA Pilot/Controller Glossary (verbatim from the Federal Aviation Regulations).

Where This Term Is Used