What type of approach allows a pilot to proceed visually and clear of clouds to an airport?

The correct answer is a visual approach, which is a procedure that allows a pilot to continue to the airport visually, typically in good weather conditions where the pilot can see the runway and other landmarks. This type of approach is used when visibility is sufficient for the pilot to fly and land the aircraft without relying solely on instrument landing systems or procedures.

During a visual approach, pilots must maintain separation from other aircraft and navigate visually rather than following a predetermined instrument approach path, allowing for more flexibility in the arrival and landing process. This facilitates quicker landings, especially when the approach and landing can be conducted visually without entering a low visibility corridor.

The other options like contact approach, standard instrument departures (SIDs), and standard terminal arrival (STAR) are related to specific procedures. While a contact approach also allows for visual navigation, it typically requires approval from ATC and adherence to specific air traffic control instructions. SIDs and STARs are designed for structured departures and arrivals, respectively, primarily under instrument flight rules (IFR), and do not inherently allow for visual navigation.