What is an essential feature of VFR flight planning?

Visual navigation by pilots is an essential feature of VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight planning because VFR operations rely heavily on the pilot's ability to see and interpret landmarks, terrain, and other visual cues in the environment. Under VFR, pilots are expected to maintain visual reference to the ground and navigate using visual aids rather than relying solely on instruments. This method of navigation allows pilots to make real-time decisions based on their observations.

While cloud cover assessment can be relevant to VFR operations, it does not define the core feature of VFR flight planning. Complicated navigation instruments and the submission of extensive paperwork are typically associated with IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight planning, where such instruments and regulations play a central role. Therefore, the emphasis on visual navigation by pilots underscores the fundamental nature of VFR flight planning.