Special VFR (SVFR)

Special VFR (SVFR)

Special VFR (SVFR) is a procedure that allows a VFR flight in a control zone (CTR) under weather conditions below standard VMC minima but still permitting visual flight.

Source: EU Regulation 923/2012 (SERA) Article SERA.5010 Special VFR Flights; EASA Easy Access Rules for SERA.

Prerequisites

A) Pilot

• Valid PPL with current medical.
• VFR-qualified (every PPL is).
• Understanding of local procedures (AIP).

B) Weather (SERA.5010)

• Ground visibility ≥ 1500 m (≥ 800 m for helicopters).
• Cloud base such that visual flight is possible.
• Clear of cloud.
• Surface in sight throughout.

C) Aircraft

• Day mandatory (except helicopters, some states allow night SVFR with special qualification).
• Radio-capable (ATC contact required).

D) ATC clearance

• Special VFR clearance must be issued by ATC.
• Explicit request: "Request Special VFR."
• ATC may decline — depending on traffic.

When applicable?

• In CTR when standard VMC are not met (e.g. cloud base < 1500 ft AAL or visibility < 5 km).
• Outside CTR: SVFR does not exist — there normal VFR applies or it is simply not possible.

Operational characteristics

• One aircraft in SVFR at a time (typically, by airfield).
• ATC prioritises IFR traffic.
• Long wait possible (possibly hold until IFR approaches done).
• Minimum height above ground (over built-up area: 1000 ft AAL; otherwise 500 ft AGL, SERA.5005 (f)).
• Speed: max 140 kt IAS in CTR (SERA.5005 (h)) — also applies to SVFR.

Example

Munich CTR (EDDM), weather: visibility 3000 m, cloud base 600 ft AAL.

• Standard VMC (5 km / 1500 ft AAL) not met.
• VFR pilot approaching from the north has three options:
  1. Request SVFR clearance → fly through CTR to Erding.
  2. Around through uncontrolled airspace.
  3. Cancel approach and divert.

Risks of SVFR

• Very low visibility reserve: with additional weather deterioration, IMC fast.
• Disorientation near clouds/fog.
• CFIT risk (controlled flight into terrain) with low clouds.
• High workload — VFR navigation, ATC radio, visibility limits all at once.

Recommendations

• Use only with experience in the area.
• Not under deadline pressure — plan continuation bias!
• Clear exit strategy: on loss of visibility, immediate 180° turn or climb out of CTR.
• Higher personal minima than regulatory — e.g. visibility ≥ 5 km, cloud base ≥ 1000 ft even though SERA allows lower.