What is the cloud clearance for Class E airspace VFR?

In Class E airspace, the cloud clearance requirements for VFR (Visual Flight Rules) operations are based on the altitude at which the flight is conducted. The correct answer indicates that pilots must maintain a minimum distance of 500 feet below clouds, 1000 feet above clouds, and 2000 feet horizontally from clouds when flying in this type of airspace.

This regulation is designed to ensure that pilots have sufficient visibility and separation from clouds, allowing for safe navigation and avoiding inadvertent entry into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Ensuring these distances helps to maintain safe flight operations by enhancing the pilot's situational awareness and allowing for clear sightlines.

Other options do not encompass the full requirements for cloud clearance in Class E airspace. For instance, simply being "clear of clouds" does not specify any altitude separation, which is crucial for safe VFR travel. Additionally, the specific horizontal and vertical distances outlined in the correct choice align with the regulations set forth by the FAA, ensuring that pilots operate with a defined safety margin in varying visibility conditions. The presence of visibility requirements, such as "3 SM and clear of clouds," while significant, do not replace the need for these specific cloud separation distances.