radio.training

Special VFR in Canada: the minima and how to ask for it

The minima

In a control zone, VFR needs flight visibility, and ground visibility when reported, of at least 3 miles. Special VFR is for control zones only, and for aircraft other than rotorcraft it needs 1 mile. The Canada Flight Supplement adds conditions:

• you must have a radio able to talk to the ATC unit, and keep a listening watch;
• you must stay clear of cloud and within sight of the ground at all times;
• at night, ATC will only authorize special VFR for an aeroplane to land at its destination aerodrome.

It has to be asked for

The pilot must request and receive authorization. If the weather is below VFR, the controller may tell you so and ask what you intend: weather below VFR minima, visibility two miles, only IFR or special VFR operations are permitted. What are your intentions?

The request, in the guide's format, is the unit, your call sign, request special VFR, and your intentions. If approved, you will hear special VFR is approved in the (unit name) control zone, with any other instructions. Read it back.

If the visibility is below even the special VFR minima, ATC will say so and that only IFR operations are permitted. Staying on the ground, holding outside or diverting are all good answers.

On the flight test

PPL flight test Ex. 30(h) asks you to demonstrate or explain the correct procedure for obtaining emergency radar assistance or a Special VFR clearance.

Practise the exchange out loud: an inbound call on a grey afternoon, the controller's news, and your request.

Practise special VFR at Langley →