Special VFR request & pilot duties
Special VFR (SVFR): ATC authorization to fly VFR inside a control zone when weather is below normal controlled-airspace VFR minima (3 SM, CAR 602.114(b); CAR 602.117(1)(a)). Minima (1 SM, ½ SM helicopter, clear of cloud, night landing only) in vfr-minima.
Request:
- Request and obtain: pilot must request and obtain authorization before entering or operating in the zone (CAR 602.117(1)(d)).
- ATC cannot suggest special VFR; pilot must ask.
- ATC shall authorize (CAR 602.117(2)(a)-(c)) if all:
- traffic permits
- pilot asks
- reported ground visibility in zone meets the 1 SM/½ SM floor
- aircraft carries radiocommunication equipment able to maintain contact with the ATC unit
Request/deny exchange (NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Request Special VFR):
| Step | Phraseology / action |
|---|---|
| ATC opens | Weather below VFR minima: ATC states reported visibility, only IFR or special VFR permitted, asks intentions |
| Pilot | REQUEST SPECIAL VFR (intentions) |
| Approved | SPECIAL VFR IS APPROVED IN THE [unit] CONTROL ZONE, plus any additional instructions |
| Denied | Visibility also below special VFR floor: ATC states only IFR permitted, asks intentions; special VFR cannot be approved |
Pilot duties (judgement still required on top of ATC authorization):
| Rule | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Authorization is not separation | Pilot still avoids aircraft, obstructions, weather beyond aircraft capability. ATC clearance into zone does not guarantee traffic separation | TP 1102, Weather Considerations, Special VFR |
| Clear of cloud | Clear of cloud, in sight of surface for the whole flight | CAR 602.117(1)(c); TC AIM RAC 2.7.3 Note 2 |
| Self-assess first | Before intentionally flying SVFR conditions, assess own ability and aircraft capability very carefully. Weather never constant, changes quickly | TP 1102 ch.6 Special VFR |
| Helicopters | Should fly at reduced airspeed to see and avoid traffic or obstructions | TC AIM RAC 2.7.3, Note 3 |
| Busy Class C | SVFR request may mean holding clear for IFR and other SVFR traffic. Set up for maximum endurance if lengthy wait likely | TP 1102 Ex.10 |
| Entry refused (heavy traffic or weather) | Be ready to hold, divert, or (weather case) request special VFR | TP 1102, Transiting a Control Zone |
Trap: SVFR authorization is not separation; pilot still avoids traffic, obstructions, weather.
References
- CARs 602.117
- CARs 602.114
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Request Special VFR
- TP 1102 Weather Considerations, Special VFR
- TP 1102 Ex.10 Flight For Endurance
- TP 1102 Radio Communication, Transiting a Control Zone
- TC AIM RAC 2.7.3, Special VFR Weather Minima, Notes 3