There are two classes of Airspace:
- Uncontrolled airspace
- Class G is the only uncontrolled airspace
- Uncontrolled airspace is airspace in which ATC is not authorized to provide separation services for IFR flights
- Controlled airspace
- All other classes of airspace
- Some applicants believe Class E is Uncontrolled because they are not required to be under ATC control
- Controlled airspace means that air traffic control services are available in that airspace
- All other classes of airspace
The key points you need to recall about both categories of airspace are the
- Weather minimums
- Clearance required
- Risks
- Equipment required, and
- Dimensions
Class G = Go For It (Not controlled, no equipment required)
Class E = Everywhere Else (Airspace that’s not G, D, C, B or A)
Class D = Dialog (Have to talk with tower)
Class C = Crowded (More traffic)
Class B = Big (As in big aircraft operations)
Class A = Altitude (Above 18,000’ MSL)
We’ll use the following chart to discuss the remainder of the key points you should know about airspace:
Airspace | VFR Weather Minimums | Clearance/Comm Required |
Class G Surface to 700 or 1,200′ AGL |
Day: 1 SM, Clear of Clouds* Night: 3-152’s |
No |
Class E Surface to 10,000′ MSL |
3-152’s | No |
Class E 10,000′ MSL or above |
5-111’s** | No |
Class D | 3-152’s 1,000′ Ceiling when flying below the ceiling |
Yes |
Class C | 3-152’s 1,000′ Ceiling when flying below the ceiling |
Yes |
Class B | 3 SM, Clear of Clouds 1,000′ Ceiling when flying below the ceiling |
Yes, specifically |
Class A | IFR Rules Apply | Yes |
*Recommend pilots use the same weather criteria as Class E Airspace for their Personal Minimums.
**5-111’s
- 5 Statue Miles Visibility
- 1,000’ Above the Clouds
- 1,000’ Below the Clouds, and
- 1 mile Horizontally from the Clouds