Yes. In Canada VFR flight rules require that “the aircraft is operated with visual reference to the surface”, plus all of the usual visibility requirements. There is an add-on rating which allows for VFR flight above cloud, the VFR over the top rating (VFR OTT). The requirements are below:
602.116 Notwithstanding paragraphs 602.114(a) and 602.115(a), an aircraft may be operated in VFR OTT flight during the cruise portion of the flight during the day if
(a) the aircraft is operated at a vertical distance from cloud of at least 1,000 feet;
(b) where the aircraft is operated between two cloud layers, the vertical distance between the layers is at least 5,000 feet;
(c) flight visibility at the cruising altitude of the aircraft is at least five miles; and
(d) the weather at the aerodrome of destination is forecast to have a sky condition of scattered cloud or clear and a ground visibility of five miles or greater with no forecast of precipitation, fog, thunderstorms or blowing snow, and those conditions are forecast to exist
(i) where the forecast is an aerodrome forecast (TAF), for the period from one hour before to two hours after the estimated time of arrival; and
(ii) where an aerodrome forecast (TAF) is not available and the forecast is an area forecast (FA), for the period from one hour before to three hours after the estimated time of arrival.
In a practical way, it is a graduated way of expanding a new pilots skills. For example, with your PPL you will have done 5 hours of dual instrument time. After you get your PPL you will likely do your night rating, which is another 5 hours of dual instrument time (bringing the total to at least 10 hours). Then if you do another five hours of dual instrument time (bringing the total to 15 hours), you can get the VFR over the top rating.
If you do your CPL after a PPL, you would have required a minimum of 20 hours instrument time and the night and VFR over the top ratings are included with the CPL.
Mooney_Driver wrote:
For me, a foregone conclusion is that only airframes which fulfil the following conditions will come into this group:
- at least 500 hrs or more engine potential (as well as 5 years time where that applies)
- avionics suitable for the intended use. VFR that would mean a radio and a mode S transponder plus a portable / semi portable GPS of one’s choice. (Where and when do people actually need 8.33 for VFR for instance? How long can a simple VFR tourer still fly with a 760ch radio?) IFR, what is needed in the country of operation.
- Aircraft should be airworthy, preferrable come with new ARC and 100 hrs check/pre buy inspection (which may be combined.) There should be no deferred maintenance or hidden technical traps.
- No “Projects” but valid, useable “fly away” airframes.
I fit your profile perfectly & bought a Rallye. However, your list of conditions is unrealistic! Or at least you’re not talking about a low-priced plane if it has time on the engine, updated avionics & has not deferred maintenance for technical traps. The new buyer you’re describing by definition is looking at low prices without understanding that they are not indeed that low. It doesn’t mean they shouldn’t buy, just that your list of conditions is a dream list.
