What type of approach is a visual approach executed under?

A visual approach is executed under an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight plan when the visibility conditions are VFR (Visual Flight Rules). This approach allows pilots to transition from instruments to visual navigation to align for landing when the weather is suitable. When flying under an IFR flight plan, pilots maintain their IFR clearance but are permitted to navigate visually once they have established visual reference to the runway or the approach path.

This process enhances efficiency, allowing aircraft to utilize visual references while still under the guidance of air traffic control, which can assist in reducing congestion at busy airports. It is important to understand that visual approaches can only be conducted in suitable weather conditions; thus, this scenario may not apply to approaches under VFR flight rules or without a flight plan, as it would typically fall outside the parameters for maintaining IFR clearances and requirements.