SVFR and NVFR
Night VFR (NVFR) refers to visual flight operations conducted at night. The applicable period is from the beginning of civil twilight to the end of civil dawn. Accurate timing for these periods can be referenced in published tables.
Key Considerations for Controllers
Controllers managing NVFR traffic must be aware of two primary aspects:
Continuous Radio Communication Requirement
For safety reasons, NVFR pilots must maintain continuous two-way radio communication throughout their flight.
- NVFR aircraft departing a controlled aerodrome must be handed off from the tower controller to the appropriate radar (approach or center) controller.
- NVFR aircraft departing from an uncontrolled aerodrome (AFIS station) must self-transfer to the relevant radar frequency.
- Unlike standard VFR flights, pilots must not be allowed to leave the frequency when reaching the outer reporting point. Instead, they must be transferred to the appropriate radar controller.
Flight Plan Requirement for NVFR Flights
- A flight plan is mandatory when an NVFR aircraft leaves the immediate vicinity of the departure aerodrome.
- Pilots are responsible for ensuring their NVFR flight plan is filed and activated before departure.
Myth: NVFR Clearance
A common misconception is that a “Night VFR clearance” exists, similar to a Special VFR (SVFR) clearance.
Clarification:
- There is no separate NVFR clearance.
- NVFR flights follow standard VFR entry, exit, and routing procedures, with the additional requirement of continuous radio contact and a filed flight plan when leaving the airport vicinity.
Phraseology Example
Handoff from Tower to Radar Controller
[CALLSIGN], CONTACT [RADAR UNIT] ON [FREQUENCY].
Example:
Cessna 45X, contact Approach on 123.450.
Flight Plan Confirmation
[CALLSIGN], CONFIRM FLIGHT PLAN FILED FOR NIGHT VFR.
Example:
Piper 67Y, confirm flight plan filed for Night VFR.
Operational Summary
| Requirement | Standard VFR | Night VFR (NVFR) |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous Radio Contact | Not always required | Mandatory |
| Flight Plan Required | Only for cross-border flights | Required when leaving aerodrome vicinity |
| Handoff to Radar | Not always required | Mandatory |
| Clearance Type | VFR clearance | No separate NVFR clearance |
By adhering to these procedures, controllers can ensure safe and efficient handling of NVFR operations, maintaining proper separation and communication with all aircraft operating under night visual flight rules.