FAA Ground School Practice Test

What visibility must a pilot have to operate VFR under a special VFR clearance within Class D airspace?

1. 2 miles

2. 1 mile

3. 3 miles

4. Clear of clouds

The correct answer is: 1 mile

For a pilot to operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with a special VFR clearance within Class D airspace, the requirement includes having at least 1 mile of visibility. This regulation ensures that pilots can navigate and maintain visual reference to the ground and other aircraft, which is essential for safety in congested airspace. In regard to Class D airspace, which typically surrounds airports with an operational control tower, the minimum visibility requirement reflects both safety considerations and the operating environment. With just 1 mile of visibility, pilots are expected to exercise heightened situational awareness while safely maneuvering within the airspace, especially since class D airspace can be quite busy. This minimum visibility allows for operational flexibility while still promoting responsible flying practices. The other choices suggest higher visibility minimums, which exceed the requirements for special VFR operations in Class D airspace. While having more visibility is generally advantageous for flight safety, under the specific regulations governing special VFR operations, only 1 mile is sufficient when combined with meeting the cloud clearance requirements.