What does the term 'VFR' stand for in aviation regulations?

The term 'VFR' stands for Visual Flight Rules, which are a set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to allow the pilot to see where the aircraft is going. Under VFR, pilots must be able to maintain visual reference to the ground and other landmarks, navigating primarily by sight rather than relying solely on instruments.

VFR is pivotal for pilots when flying in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and allows for greater flexibility in maneuvering the aircraft compared to instrument flight rules (IFR), which are more restrictive and generally applied in less favorable weather conditions where visibility is limited. This concept is fundamental in aviation training, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and navigation skills for pilots operating in visually clear environments. Understanding VFR is crucial for safe flight operations and compliance with aviation regulations.