In IFR operations, RVR takes precedence over ground visibility?

• A. RVR takes precedence over ground visibility
• B. Ground visibility takes precedence over RVR
• C. RVR and ground visibility are considered independently with no precedence
• D. RVR has no effect on IFR minima

Answer: (A)

RVR is the measurement that matters most for instrument flight operations because it directly reflects what a pilot can actually see along the runway and during the approach. It is a runway-specific visibility value collected by sensors on or near the runway, so it provides a more accurate picture of the pilot’s real forward visibility than the general ground visibility reported for the airfield.

Because IFR decisions for landing and takeoff depend on those precise, runway-focused conditions, when RVR is reported it governs the applicable minima. Ground visibility is used only as a fallback when RVR isn’t available. So RVR takes precedence over ground visibility in IFR planning and decision-making.