Why Some Pilots Prefer to Land Using Visual Flight Rules (VFR)

Preferring VFR Landings

I have a preference for VFR landings primarily because of the flexibility, simplicity, and situational awareness it provides. In certain situations, ILS (Instrument Landing System) may be out of order, and I have accumulated a significant amount of VFR flying experience, which makes it more intuitive for me to navigate and land using visual references.

Advantages of Using VFR for Landing

Situational Awareness

The primary benefit of VFR landings is the enhanced situational awareness that visual references outside the cockpit provide. Pilots can navigate and land based on visible landmarks and environmental factors, which can significantly improve decision-making during the approach and landing phases. This is crucial for safety and for ensuring a smooth landing.

Flexibility

VFR offers more flexibility, especially in non-towered airports or areas with less air traffic. Pilots can adjust their approach based on real-time conditions and obstacles, making VFR a preferred choice for many, particularly those operating small aircraft. The ability to choose landing patterns and approaches based on current conditions can be a significant advantage.

Simplicity

For pilots accustomed to visual flying, VFR procedures are often simpler and more intuitive than Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) procedures, particularly in good weather conditions. The reliance on visual cues rather than complex instrument readings can make the landing process less stressful and more straightforward.

Weather Conditions

One of the most compelling reasons for preferring VFR is the better weather conditions. In clear and good visibility, VFR allows pilots to take full advantage of the visibility, which makes landing much easier and safer. The lack of instrument dependence in VFR can also reduce cognitive workload, allowing pilots to focus more on stabilizing the aircraft during the landing phase.

Training and Experience

Many pilots are trained in VFR operations and feel more comfortable using visual approaches. This comfort level comes from extensive experience in specific airports or regions where pilots can easily identify key visual cues. Pilots who spend a lot of time flying and landing using VFR procedures develop a natural familiarity with the process that can be extremely beneficial in a wide range of flying conditions.

Reduced Workload

VFR can sometimes reduce the cognitive workload for pilots. In clear conditions, they do not need to rely as heavily on instruments or air traffic control as they would under IFR. This can allow them to focus more on the actual landing, reducing the chance of distractions and improving overall situational awareness during the critical approach and landing phases.

When to Land Using VFR

If you are always landing under VFR, there are scenarios where you will need to come out visually at the bottom of the approach minimums or make a missed approach. You can only land if you can see the runway or the landing spot, as is the case for helicopters. Missing the visual cues can lead to a required missed approach.

The exception to this is seen in certain military services like the Coast Guard and some military operations where pilots are trained to fly an ILS approach without seeing the runway. This is a necessity due to the weather conditions they face. However, for commercial or private pilots who do not have this training, attempting such an approach would be extremely dangerous and potentially suicidal.

As a pilot, it is crucial to understand the specific circumstances and conditions that govern whether to land under VFR or IFR. While VFR offers numerous benefits, it is essential to be fully prepared for any situation, ensuring a safe landing.

In summary, pilots prefer VFR landings for the simplicity, flexibility, situational awareness, and reduced workload it provides. However, the decision to land under VFR or IFR should always be based on comprehensive assessment of the current weather, air traffic, and the specific type of aircraft being flown.