What does "visual separation" mean?

Visual separation refers to the practice of maintaining distance between aircraft based on the pilots' visual observations of one another rather than relying solely on radar data or air traffic control directives. It is a method that allows pilots to see and avoid other aircraft, thereby enhancing safety during flight operations, especially in specific scenarios such as in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions.

This method is often utilized in situations where aircraft are operating in close proximity, for example, during departure or arrival phases. Visual separation can be particularly effective in ensuring that aircraft maintain safe distances from each other when pilots can clearly see other traffic.

The other options presented do not accurately represent the definition of visual separation. The first option relates to radar observations, which is not the focus of visual separation. The third option discusses a procedure for airspace boundaries, which is unrelated to separation techniques. The fourth option addresses aircraft separation in adverse weather conditions, which typically requires different protocols and considerations compared to visual separation. Thus, the correct understanding centers on visual observations as the basis for maintaining safe distances between aircraft.