An IFR approach conducted while operating on an IFR flight plan that authorizes a pilot to proceed visually and clear of clouds to the airport via visual landmarks and other information is called what type of approach?

• A. CVFP
• B. VFR Approach
• C. Contact Approach
• D. LOC Approach

Answer: (A)

A CVFP, or Contact Visual Flight Procedure, is an IFR approach that lets you navigate to the airport using visual references while still on an IFR flight plan. ATC clears you to proceed visually and to use landmarks and other ground information to guide your arrival, staying clear of clouds. This fits the description because you’re not following a published instrument approach like a localizer, and you’re not simply flying VFR under a VFR plan; you’re conducting an approach entirely by visual cues under IFR with ATC guidance. A standard contact approach is similar in relying on visual references, but CVFP specifically involves a prescribed visual route or landmarks provided/coordinated with ATC, rather than just a direct clearance to proceed visually to the airport. A LOC approach remains an instrument approach using the localizer, not a visual transfer.