What does "VFR over the top" refer to?

"VFR over the top" refers to flying under visual flight rules (VFR) above a layer of clouds, where the pilot has visual reference to the horizon and can navigate using visual cues. This scenario typically involves climbing to a higher altitude to fly over a cloud layer that may obstruct visibility below but where the weather above the clouds is clear and suitable for VFR flight.

This option highlights the specific situation where a pilot is maintaining VFR flight rules while being separated from the ground by clouds, ensuring sufficient visibility and situational awareness. Pilots must be cautious in this scenario to ensure that they remain VFR compliant and able to maintain visual contact with the horizon and avoid flying into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).

The other choices, although related to different aspects of VFR or flying, do not align with the definition of "VFR over the top." For instance, flying under the clouds with good visibility pertains to operating within a clear area, and nighttime flying involves different considerations such as adherence to specific VFR night requirements. Flying with instruments only refers to operating under instrument flight rules (IFR), which differs fundamentally from the VFR concept.