HPNPilot1200
En-Route
I have a question regarding "Distance from Clouds" in FAR §91.155 - Basic VFR Wx minimums.
If you look at class E airspace below 10,000 feet, the FARs specify you must operate the aircraft (in Class E airspace below 10,000) [under VFR] 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds.
If you look at class B airspace, the FARs specify you must operate the aircraft (in Class B airspace) [under VFR] "Clear of Clouds."
Which is more restrictive? What does "clear of clouds" really mean?
If I interpreted the FARs correctly, "clear of clouds" means keeping your aircraft clear of any/all clouds, but you can get as close to them as you'd like, as long as you remain clear (not in) of them. From that conclusion, I would think that class B Wx minimums (in regards to distance from clouds) are less restrictive.
Is that correct? If not, please specify why.
Thanks,
Jason
If you look at class E airspace below 10,000 feet, the FARs specify you must operate the aircraft (in Class E airspace below 10,000) [under VFR] 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds.
If you look at class B airspace, the FARs specify you must operate the aircraft (in Class B airspace) [under VFR] "Clear of Clouds."
Which is more restrictive? What does "clear of clouds" really mean?
If I interpreted the FARs correctly, "clear of clouds" means keeping your aircraft clear of any/all clouds, but you can get as close to them as you'd like, as long as you remain clear (not in) of them. From that conclusion, I would think that class B Wx minimums (in regards to distance from clouds) are less restrictive.
Is that correct? If not, please specify why.
Thanks,
Jason