SVFR
Transportation & Travel abbreviation · Aviation
| Stands for | Special visual flight rules |
|---|---|
| Categories | Transportation & Travel |
SVFR stands for Special visual flight rules, an aviation abbreviation.
ATC clearance letting a VFR pilot operate in the controlled airspace around an airport when weather is below normal VFR minimums, provided there is at least 1 statute mile of visibility and the aircraft can remain clear of clouds. Night SVFR in the US requires an instrument rating and an instrument-equipped aircraft.
Example: Tower, Cessna 345, requesting SVFR to depart to the north; we'll remain clear of clouds.
Usage notes
Often used to leave or enter an airport sitting under a localized fog bank or low layer while the surrounding area is clear. In the US the clearance must be requested by the pilot rather than offered by the controller. Some busy airports listed in Part 91 Appendix D do not permit fixed-wing SVFR at all.
Related abbreviations
More aviation abbreviations
- SID – Standard instrument departure
- SIGMET – Significant meteorological information
- STA – Scheduled time of arrival
- STAR – Standard terminal arrival route
- STD – Scheduled time of departure
- STOL – Short takeoff and landing
- TA – Traffic advisory
- TAF – Terminal Aerodrome Forecast
- TAS – True airspeed
- TCAS – Traffic alert and collision avoidance system
- TFR – Temporary flight restriction
- TRACON – Terminal radar approach control