Definition
An instruction published on certain instrument approach procedures directing the pilot, after reaching a specified point, to proceed visually to the airport using ground references rather than continuing to follow charted instrument guidance. The pilot must have the airport in sight and remain clear of clouds while completing the approach to landing.
Plain English
After a certain point on the approach, the chart tells you to stop following the instruments and finish the approach by looking outside and flying to the airport visually.
Context Anchor
Heard on the radio during arrival when the pilot has the airport or airport environment in sight and air traffic control is clearing the aircraft for a visual approach.
Why Pilots Care
It permits a simpler, more direct arrival once visual contact exists, reducing cockpit workload near the airport while still under ATC control.
Grounding Statement
The key idea is that the approach is now based on what the pilot can see outside, while still operating under air traffic control clearance.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as casual advice to “just look out the window and head that way.” In FAA use, it is a specific air traffic control clearance for a visual approach to the airport.
Example Sentence 1
After crossing the final fix, the chart instructs us to fly visual to airport, so confirm you have the runway in sight before we descend.
Example Sentence 2
Once cleared to fly visual to the airport, the pilot descended and aligned with the runway using outside references.