What is the minimum altitude and visibility requirement for a visual approach?

The minimum altitude and visibility requirement for a visual approach is established to ensure that pilots can maintain visual contact with the ground and other aircraft while safely maneuvering towards the runway. When conducting a visual approach, a pilot must be able to see the runway or the preceding traffic in order to navigate effectively and safely land the aircraft.

The correct minimum visibility requirement is 3 statute miles, which allows for sufficient distance to see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles. The altitude requirement of 1,000 feet above the ground level ensures that the pilot has adequate vertical separation and is high enough to execute a safe approach and landing. These parameters help to maintain safety standards during the final stages of an approach when flying visually among potentially congested airspace and other traffic. Pilots are expected to transition from instrument flight to visual once they have established the required visibility and are sufficiently clear of other traffic and obstacles.