SurClaro Flight Simulator Resources

Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2007 7:44 am Post subject: Question regarding IFR and VFR

I have a question that Ive tried to find, but was not able to. If I have an instrument rating, am I able to fly under VFR rules, while in instrument conditions?

Also how does the VASI and PAPI lights work? I know what the red and white lights mean, what I want to know is how do they know when to change colours? Im assuming that they are somesort of prizms?!?!

Thanks.

Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2007 12:51 pm Post subject:

If only "Instrument Conditions" exist, this means that "VFR Conditions" do not exist. In other words, if the weather and visibility is not safe to fly VFR then you can not fly VFR. However, if you are Instrument Rated, you can fly under VFR rules if VFR conditions (Weather and visibility) exist.

Yes, the VASI and PAPI lights are based upon a PRISM. Depending upon your level of sight vs the lamps, you will see Red Only, Red/White, or White Only. Check out this link: Cool

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_Approach_Slope_Indicator

Here are some excerpts from AIM (Aeronautical Information Manual)

3−1−4. Basic VFR Weather Minimums
a. No person may operate an aircraft under basic
VFR when the flight visibility is less, or at a distance
from clouds that is less, than that prescribed for the
corresponding altitude and class of airspace.

b. Except as provided in 14 CFR Section 91.157,
Special VFR Weather Minimums, no person may
operate an aircraft beneath the ceiling under VFR
within the lateral boundaries of controlled airspace
designated to the surface for an airport when the
ceiling is less than 1,000 feet.