Visibility and cloud clearance minimums for VFR flights are dependent on whether the flight is within or outside controlled airspace. Con-trolled airspaces are those areas in which some or all aircraft may be subject to air traffic control. Figure 5-2-3 lists the basic VFR minimums applicable to flights within or outside controlled airspace. Additional VFR weather minimums are as follows:

1. At an airfield of departure, within the "control zone" the distance between the surface and the lowest "broken" or "over-cast" cloud layer (ceiling) must be at least 1,000 feet. However, some airfields require that the ceiling be greater than 1,000 feet. At those airfields requiring a higher ceiling, pilots are cleared using the higher, more stringent minimum. The DOD Flight Information Publication (IFR Supplement) lists IFR ceiling requirements in the remarks section on each airfield.

A control zone" normally refers to a circular area around an airport (5-mile radius) and any extensions necessary to in elude instrument approach and departure paths.

2. The lowest broken or overcast cloud layer at the destination must be forecast to remain at or above 1,000 feet or the prescribed published VFR minimum for the period 1 hour before and 1 hour after the aircrafts estimated time of arrival (ETA). If the prescribed minimum is higher than 1,000 feet, it is the pilots responsibility to let you know this during the briefing.

3. The visibility at the destination must be 3 miles or more at the time of departure and be forecast to remain 3 miles or more for the period 1 hour before and 1 hour after the ETA.

4. The VFR minimums for helicopters differ from those for fixed-wing aircraft. VFR minimums for helicopters are ceiling 500 feet and visibility 1 mile.

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