Definition
The fundamental visual collision-avoidance principle in visual flight, requiring pilots to actively scan outside the aircraft to detect other traffic and to make their own aircraft visible to others through aircraft lighting, position, and conspicuity. It is the regulatory and operational foundation of separation in visual meteorological conditions, regardless of whether the flight is conducted under VFR or IFR.
Plain English
When you can see outside, it is your job to look for other aircraft and to make your own aircraft easy for them to spot. You watch for them; they watch for you.
Context Anchor
Used in discussions of aircraft lighting, traffic awareness, daytime and nighttime operations, and flying near airports where other aircraft may be close.
Why Pilots Care
Under VFR, ATC does not provide separation; failure to apply see-and-be-seen practices is a leading cause of mid-air collisions.
Grounding Statement
In flight, safety depends on both sides of the idea: your eyes outside looking for others, and your aircraft made visible so others can find you.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as a casual reminder to glance outside. In aviation, see and be seen means active traffic scanning plus deliberate use of lights and positioning so other pilots can spot you.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor reminded the student that even on an IFR flight plan in clear weather, the see and be seen principle still applies.
Example Sentence 2
Turning on the landing light and strobe before entering the airport traffic area helps other pilots see and be seen during busy VFR periods.