Plain English Meaning

A specific spot on a non-precision approach where, if you can see the runway, you can leave your minimum altitude and start a normal descent to land. Before that spot, even if you see the runway, you should stay at the minimum altitude.

Full Definition

A defined point on a non-precision straight-in instrument approach procedure from which a normal descent from the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) to the runway touchdown point may begin, provided the pilot has the required visual reference. The VDP is identified on the approach chart by the symbol 'v' and is normally located using , distance, or a / .