Expert: D. Norkus - 8/1/2009

Question
I was told that in a class e airspace if you are an IFR pilot that you can go through the clouds up to 700 agl without a clearance as long as the tops dont exceed the 700 agl. I cant find this anywhere.

Answer
That is not correct, which is why you can't find it.

It doesn't matter if you are instrument rated, the type of flight plan you are operating under is key. Under VFR you need at least miles of visibility, must fly at an altitude at least 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above and 2,000 feet laterally from clouds. So, as long as you are operating under VFR, and not on an IFR flight plan, you cannot fly through any clouds in any class of airspace. Class E is "uncontrolled" in that you don't have to talk to anyone, but that doesn't free you from the "control" of the visibility requirements.

This is not only for your protection, but the protection of IFR traffic that may be in the area. It makes see and avoid possible. There is the possibility in some areas that IFR aircraft may be under an IFR flight plan descending through those clouds on approach to a non-towered airport in class E airspace. Obviously it would be a bad idea for a VFR flight to go punching through as that could cause a midair with the IFR traffic who is allowed to be there. That is why VFR traffic must maintain such cloud clearances. Even in areas of Class E with no airport for miles, the same rules apply.