Which term describes a pilot trying to maintain visual contact with the ground in low visibility conditions?

The term "scud running" refers to the practice of a pilot flying at a low altitude to remain visually in contact with the ground, especially in conditions of low visibility, such as when there are low clouds or fog. This method is often risky, as it involves navigating below the cloud base and can lead pilots into hazardous situations like terrain, obstacles, or further deteriorating weather. It typically involves only relying on visual references rather than adhering to instrument flight rules, which require pilots to fly solely by instruments due to inadequate visibility.

Low cloud flying and instrument flight do not specifically capture the nuance of a pilot's efforts to maintain ground contact in challenging visual conditions, while visual flight rules are more concerned with the overall regulations that govern flying with visual references rather than the act of navigating specifically in low visibility.