During VFR conditions, what does the pilot primarily rely on for navigation?

When flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions, pilots primarily rely on visual references to navigate. This approach involves using landmarks, terrain, and other visible features on the ground to determine their position and direction. VFR flights typically occur in conditions where visibility is good, meaning that pilots can see and interpret visual cues effectively.

In contrast, while instruments inside the aircraft are essential for flying safely, during VFR conditions, they serve more as supplementary tools rather than the primary means for navigation. Similarly, GPS and digital maps are helpful navigation aids, especially in more advanced aircraft, but they do not replace the fundamental skill of visually identifying one's position relative to the ground. Air traffic control instructions may provide guidance and traffic advisories, but they do not serve as a primary navigation method under VFR; rather, they support safe operations in the airspace system. Thus, visual references to the ground and landmarks are the main navigation resources for pilots flying in VFR conditions.