What does the 'VFR' in VFR cruising altitudes stand for?

The term 'VFR' stands for Visual Flight Rules. This is a set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to allow the pilot to see where the aircraft is going. VFR allows pilots to fly by visual reference to the ground and other landmarks rather than relying solely on instruments.

In the context of cruising altitudes, VFR cruising altitudes are prescribed to provide adequate separation between aircraft flying visual flight rules at different altitudes, ensuring safe vertical navigation within controlled and uncontrolled airspace. The regulations also dictate specific altitude categories (like odd or even thousand-foot levels) that help maintain order in the skies. Understanding VFR is essential for pilots, especially when navigating under visual conditions where maintaining visual contact with the terrain is critical for safety.