What is the term used when a pilot requests clearance while ensuring separation from other air traffic?

The correct term for a pilot requesting clearance while ensuring separation from other air traffic is "VFR-on-top." This phrase specifically refers to when a pilot operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) requests to fly above the cloud layer, while maintaining visual reference to the ground or other landmarks, in order to avoid traffic and achieve separation.

In this context, the pilot is still responsible for their own navigation and traffic avoidance, which emphasizes their need to maintain visual separation from other aircraft. This practice allows pilots to enjoy the benefits of VFR while being mindful of the existing IFR traffic below them, thus enhancing overall flight safety.

The other terms, while related to air traffic handling and procedures, do not accurately describe the scenario in which a pilot is requesting clearance with an emphasis on ensuring separation. "IFR separation" pertains to air traffic control procedures for aircraft operating under Instrument Flight Rules, establishing separation based on instrument flight. "Special VFR" refers to specific conditions allowing VFR flight in controlled airspace under certain weather circumstances, but does not specifically highlight the aspect of ensuring separation. "Weather-related clearance" is a more general term and doesn’t encapsulate the unique context of VFR-on-top requests related to maintaining separation from other air traffic.