Table Of Contents
1 Introduction
2 Class D
3 Class C
4 Class B
5 VFR Release of IFR Departure

Introduction

VFR instructions authorize pilots to proceed in visual meteorological conditions. The need for VFR instructions is to ensure separation from other aircraft in a controlled environment.

Class D

In most cases Class D fields do not operate a dedicated Clearance Delivery frequency. VFR instructions are not specifically required when operating out of a Class D airspace due to their being no separation requirements. If flight following is requested, assign the aircraft a squawk code and expected departure frequency.

Class C


VFR aircraft operating out of a Class C airspace will usually be issued a departure frequency and squawk. In some cases, restricting the altitude at which the aircraft can perform VFR altitudes is necessary. Reference SOP and coordinate with the appropriate approach/departure controller if necessary. VFR aircraft remaining in the local pattern do not require a squawk or altitude instructions. If the aircraft has intentions to depart the pattern at a later time issue the departure frequency.

State the departure frequency and squawk if no altitude restriction is necessary.

Example:
N312PD, departure frequency 119.6. Squawk 0524.

State “maintain VFR” and the altitude to maintain VFR at/at or above/at or below the departure frequency and squawk.

Example:
N312PD, maintain VFR at or below 4,500. Departure frequency 119.6. Squawk 0524.

Class B

The most significant difference between Class B and Class C airspace is that an explicit clearance is required to be issued to all aircraft intending to fly into, out of , or through the Class B airspace. With the exception of the explicit clearance, the phraseology from the Class C airspace is nearly identical. In some cases, you may be required to assign headings and/or VFR routes for a pilot to fly on departure. Reference SOP and coordinate with the appropriate approach/departure controller.

All the same procedures apply above with the added explicit clearance. State “cleared to enter/out of/through Bravo airspace” followed by the procedures above.

Example:
N312PD, cleared to enter Bravo airspace. Maintain 6,500 while in bravo airspace. Departure frequency 124.3. Squawk 0524.
N312PD, cleared out of Bravo airspace. Departure frequency 124.3. Squawk 0524.
N312PD, cleared to enter Bravo airspace. Squawk 0524.

Aircraft remaining in pattern will be issued a Bravo clearance.

Example:
N312PD, cleared to enter Bravo airspace.

VFR Release of IFR Departure

Aircraft originally intending to depart IFR may depart VFR if approved by the appropriate facility/sector. The facility/sector responsible for issuing the clearance must approve the VFR departure. Reference SOP or coordinate with the appropriate sector. At very minimum issue the appropriate departure frequency and when to contact the facility responsible for issuing the IFR clearance.

DAL1465, VFR departure authorized, contact Big Sky departure on 119.6 at 1700z for clearance.
DAL1465, VFR departure authorized, contact Salt Lake approach on 124.3 at FFU VOR for clearance.