What is required for a pilot to report visual sighting during an approach?

For a pilot to report a visual sighting during an approach, it is essential that the pilot sees the airport or traffic as specifically instructed by air traffic control or standard operating procedures. The primary purpose of requiring visual sightings is to ensure that the pilot is adequately situating themselves in relation to the airport environment, which is essential for a safe landing.

This includes having a clear visual reference to the runway and other critical navigational aids, allowing the pilot to make informed decisions about the approach and landing. Simply identifying ground landmarks, confirming traffic sighting, or having a view that includes clouds does not meet the criteria necessary for a visual approach. Instead, having an explicit view of the airport or the relevant traffic is crucial for maintaining safety and situational awareness during the landing phase.