Definition
Predefined geographic locations published on VFR sectional and terminal area charts for use by pilots flying under visual flight rules. Each VFR waypoint has a five-letter identifier beginning with the letters 'VP' and a published latitude and longitude, allowing it to be entered directly into GPS receivers as a navigation fix. VFR waypoints are intended for VFR navigation only and may not be used for IFR flight planning, filing, or as part of an IFR clearance.
Plain English
Named points on VFR charts, each with a five-letter code starting with 'VP', that pilots can punch into a GPS to fly to or from. They are only for visual flying, not instrument flying.
Context Anchor
Seen on VFR charts and in route planning when a pilot uses electronic navigation to support a visual flight.
Derivation
Waypoint' simply means a point along the way -- a defined spot used to mark or measure progress on a route. Adding 'VFR' specifies that this kind of waypoint is built for visual flight rules navigation, separate from the waypoints used in the IFR system.
Why Pilots Care
They give pilots consistent, charted references in areas with few natural landmarks, supporting accurate routing and better situational awareness.
Grounding Statement
A VFR waypoint is a named spot you can aim your navigation toward while still flying the airplane by visual reference.
Intuition Check
Do not assume a VFR waypoint is a required checkpoint or an air traffic control instruction. It is an optional navigation aid for pilots flying under visual flight rules.
Example Sentence 1
She entered the VFR waypoint VPABC into her GPS to help stay clear of the Class B airspace on her route.
Example Sentence 2
Sectional charts display VFR waypoints so pilots can quickly confirm their position during a cross-country flight.