Aviation glossary
Special VFR
A VFR flight cleared by ATC to operate within a control zone in conditions below the standard VMC minima. The pilot is responsible for obstacle clearance.
Special VFR (SVFR) is an ATC clearance that permits entry or continued flight in a CTR in conditions that do not meet the standard VMC minima (for example ceiling 800 ft, visibility 1500 m). Pilots must be aware of the reduced margins, have a suitable route and know the terrain. Helicopter SVFR minima are usually lower than for aeroplanes — in the Czech Republic typically at least 1500 m visibility and clear of cloud. No SVFR flight begins without ATC approval.
Related terms
- VFRVisual Flight Rules — the pilot navigates by outside visual reference and must meet VMC minima.
- VMCVisual Meteorological Conditions — the visibility and cloud-clearance minima that must be met for a VFR flight.
- IMCInstrument Meteorological Conditions — weather that does not meet VMC. Flight is only possible under IFR with the appropriate rating.
- CTRControl Zone — the controlled airspace around a controlled aerodrome. Entry requires an ATC clearance and the appropriate VFR/IFR flight plan.