What are the minimum visibility and cloud clearance for helicopter special VFR?

• A. 1/2 SM vis; Clear of clouds
• B. 3 SM vis; scattered clouds
• C. 5 SM vis; overcast
• D. 1 SM vis; broken clouds

Answer: (A)

Special VFR for helicopters allows operating in controlled airspace when the weather is below standard VFR, as long as you have ATC clearance and stay visually referenced to the ground with minimal visibility. For rotorcraft, the minimums are half a mile of visibility and you must remain clear of clouds. Staying clear of any cloud ensures you maintain a continuous visual reference to the surface and obstacles, which is crucial when the visibility is very limited. Among the options, only the half-mile visibility with clear of clouds matches this rotorcraft-specific Special VFR minimum. The other scenarios imply cloud presence or higher visibility, which do not meet the helicopter Special VFR requirements.