Does a clearance to operate VFR on top cancel your IFR flight plan?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if weather improves
• D. It depends on ATC

Answer: (B)

A clearance to operate VFR on top does not cancel an active IFR flight plan. It simply allows you to fly VFR through the layer above or between clouds while still being under ATC and the IFR clearance for routing and separation. The IFR flight plan remains in effect until you or ATC explicitly cancel it, or you close it after landing. While flying VFR on top, you must meet VFR weather minimums for the airspace, maintain two-way radio communication, and follow ATC instructions. You can cancel IFR if you’re in actual VFR conditions and outside Class A airspace, but the act of being cleared VFR on top itself does not terminate the IFR plan.