What is the minimum visibility required for operating in Class E airspace during daylight hours?

In Class E airspace, the minimum visibility requirements are determined by the specific operating conditions and the altitude at which the flight is conducted. For operations during daylight hours, a minimum visibility of 3 miles is required when flying at or below 10,000 feet above mean sea level (MSL) in Class E airspace. This requirement ensures that pilots maintain sufficient visual reference to the ground and other aircraft, which is crucial for safe navigation and avoidance of collisions.

The choice of 3 miles strikes a balance between the safety of flight operations and the practicalities of visual navigation, especially when considering the potential flight activities taking place in this airspace. At greater altitudes or during nighttime operations, visibility requirements can change, but for daytime operations in Class E, 3 miles is the established standard. Understanding these regulations helps pilots maintain compliance with FAA guidelines and enhances safety in the National Airspace System.