Meteorological Minimums for VFR Flight
Always fly within both the legal and the club's higher VFR met minimums, and before Cook Strait crossings ask whether you can see the other side and have an exit plan.
1 min readKapiti Aero Club safety team
When flying VFR in New Zealand, sticking to meteorological minimums is crucial for safe flight. The minimums are outlined in your flight manuals, which are a reliable reference if you're ever unsure.
Our aero club has its own meteorological minimums, set above the legal requirements, to give all pilots an extra margin of safety. Always stick to these minimums.
On any cross-country, or when crossing Cook Strait, pay close attention to the conditions and ask yourself:
- Can you see the other side?
- How low is the cloud?
- What's your exit plan if conditions change?
If you can't meet the minimums, reassess your plans and consider alternatives. Always fly within both the legal and the club's meteorological minimums, and never hesitate to check your flight manual for specific guidance.