Who is responsible for remaining clear of clouds during a Special VFR flight?

During a Special VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight, it is the pilot's responsibility to remain clear of clouds. This is essential because the pilot must maintain visual reference to the ground and other landmarks, ensuring safe navigation and avoiding potential collisions with obstacles and other aircraft.

Special VFR is a set of regulations that allow a pilot to fly in less than the standard VFR weather conditions, but the pilot must still comply with certain requirements, including visibility and cloud clearance criteria. The responsibility for adhering to these regulations falls solely on the pilot, as they are the ones directly operating the aircraft and making real-time safety decisions.

While other individuals involved in the flight, such as air traffic controllers, instructors, and maintenance technicians, play important roles in aviation safety and operations, it is ultimately the pilot who must ensure that they are flying safely and legally by remaining clear of clouds. This emphasizes the importance of a pilot's situational awareness and decision-making skills in maintaining safe flight operations.