Can I mix VFR and IFR on a flight?

[SeedyL3205]

@Nic727

However, what I’m trying to achieve, in a realistic way, is that I want to plan my flight in a VFR way, like deciding point of interests I want to see and arrive to destination airport, but for long distance I usually use autopilot to follow the GPS line and I also want to fly above the clouds. Does it mean that my VFR is transforming into IFR flight?

Hello @Nic727,

In some countries (including Canada), there is such a thing as “VFR Over-the-Top” which means you can legally fly above the clouds without filing an IFR flight plan or even being an IFR rated pilot. You can also use a GPS and autopilot to navigate while flying VFR, although the GPS shouldn’t be your only method of navigation and you should be ready to take manual control of the aircraft at any moment.

In real-life flying, I have often used VORs to fly point-to-point even though I’m not IFR rated and I’m flying under VFR. Of course, I still have a nav chart on my lap, I’m always confirming my position by referencing landmarks on the ground, and I never fly into IMC.

In short, it’s entirely realistic to do what you want (visit landmarks and sometimes fly above clouds) all while flying under VFR.

Thanks,
MSFS Team