Airspace Definitions Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is an Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)?

An area of airspace over land or water that requires the identification, location, and control of aircraft for national security.

Which of the following are types of ADIZ locations?

Coastal (correct)

Distant Early Warning Identification Zone (DEWIZ) (correct)

International

Domestic (correct)

An IFR or DVFR flight plan must be filed with the appropriate __________ facility.

aeronautical

An aircraft must have an inoperable transponder prior to entering an ADIZ.

False Signup and view all the answers

What type of position reporting is required for IFR flights in an ADIZ?

Normal position reporting Signup and view all the answers

What is the tolerance for aircraft position over land in an ADIZ?

±5 minutes from the estimated time over a reporting point and within 10 NM from the centerline of the intended track. Signup and view all the answers

What must pilots report when flying too low for radar coverage in a land-based ADIZ?

Landing or leaving the land-based ADIZ Signup and view all the answers

What is the lower limit of the controlled airspace when a control tower in Class D airspace ceases operation?

Class E surface area rules or Class E rules down to 700 feet AGL and Class G rules to the surface apply. Signup and view all the answers

All airports with an operating control tower always have Class D airspace surrounding them.

False Signup and view all the answers

State several examples of Class E airspace.

Examples include surface areas for non-operating control towers, extensions, transition areas, enroute domestic areas, federal airways, offshore airspace, and airspace above FL 600. Signup and view all the answers

What are the operating rules and pilot equipment requirements to operate within Class E airspace?

Minimum pilot certification is a student pilot certificate; there are no specific equipment requirements. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to surface area airspace when a Class C or Class D surface area is not in effect continuously?

It changes to either a Class E surface area or Class G airspace. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the purpose of Class E transition areas.

They help separate arriving and departing IFR traffic from VFR aircraft. Signup and view all the answers

You are required to establish communications with a tower located within Class E airspace.

True Signup and view all the answers

How is Class E airspace depicted on navigational charts?

It is shown by narrow bands of vignette on Sectional and Terminal Area charts. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of Class G airspace?

Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace not designated as A, B, C, D, or E airspace. Signup and view all the answers

You are required to establish communications with a tower located within Class G airspace.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are the vertical limits of Class G airspace?

It begins at the surface and continues up to the overlying controlled airspace, not exceeding 14,500 feet MSL. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum cloud clearance and visibility required in Class G airspace at night below 1,200 feet AGL?

An airplane must be operated clear of clouds with visibility of at least 1 statute mile while within one-half mile of the runway. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between Class G airspace and Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace?

The difference lies in the flight visibility/cloud clearance requirements to operate within them. Signup and view all the answers

A VFR flight can be made into Class B, C, D, or E airspace if VFR flight minimums cannot be maintained.

False Signup and view all the answers

Special VFR clearances are always available to pilots in all classes of airspace.

False Signup and view all the answers

What facility should a pilot contact for a Special VFR clearance when in a Class B, C, or D surface area?

The control tower. Signup and view all the answers

Special VFR operations by fixed-wing aircraft are prohibited at night unless the pilot is instrument rated.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'Prohibited Area'?

It is airspace defined by specific dimensions where flight is prohibited for security reasons. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'Restricted Area'?

Airspace where flight is subject to restrictions and often contains hazards. Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions may pilots enter restricted or prohibited areas?

With the permission of the controlling agency for restricted areas; normally prohibited in prohibited areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'Warning Area'?

Airspace extending three nautical miles from the U.S. coast that may pose hazards to nonparticipating aircraft. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'MOA'?

A Military Operating Area, which is specifically established for military training and separates these activities from IFR traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'Alert Area'?

Areas marked on charts to inform nonparticipating pilots of frequent high pilot training activity. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'Controlled Firing Areas'?

Areas with activities that can be hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft, with operations suspended when an aircraft approaches. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'National Security Area'?

Airspace where security and safety are prioritized, pilots are requested to avoid flying through. Signup and view all the answers

What is a Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA)?

A designated area where special federal aviation regulations apply. Signup and view all the answers

Where can information on special use airspace be found?

On IFR or visual charts, which include operational hours and altitudes. Signup and view all the answers

Where can a pilot find information on VFR flyways and Class B airspace transition routes?

On the reverse side of VFR Terminal Area Charts. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'Military Training Routes'?

Routes designed for military training, flown under different regulations depending on altitude. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'TRSA'?

A Terminal Radar Service Area providing radar vectoring and separation for IFR and participating VFR aircraft. Signup and view all the answers

TRSAs fit into any of the U.S. airspace classes.

False Signup and view all the answers

How are TRSAs depicted on navigational charts?

With a solid black line and altitudes for each segment. Signup and view all the answers

What is Class A airspace?

IFR Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of Class B airspace?

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

What is Class C airspace?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is Class D airspace?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of Class E (controlled) airspace?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Can a flight under VFR be conducted within Class A airspace?

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum pilot certification for operations conducted within Class A airspace?

Private pilot with an instrument rating. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum equipment is required for flight operations within Class A airspace?

A two-way radio and Mode C altitude encoding transponder. Signup and view all the answers

How is Class A airspace depicted on navigational charts?

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum pilot certification required to operate an aircraft within Class B airspace?

At least a private pilot certificate. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum equipment is required for operations of an aircraft within Class B airspace?

Operable two-way radio and Mode C altitude encoding transponder. Signup and view all the answers

Before operating an aircraft into Class B airspace, what basic requirement must be met?

Obtain an ATC clearance from the appropriate control facility. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum weather conditions are required when conducting VFR flight operations within Class B airspace?

Clear of clouds with at least 3 statute miles flight visibility. Signup and view all the answers

How is Class B airspace depicted on navigational charts?

Class B airspace is charted with a solid shaded blue line. Signup and view all the answers

What basic ATC services are provided to all aircraft operating within Class B airspace?

VFR pilots receive sequencing and separation from other aircraft. Signup and view all the answers

Whose responsibility is it to avoid wake turbulence while in Class B airspace?

The pilot-in-command. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed allowed when operating inside Class B airspace under 10,000 feet?

250 knots. Signup and view all the answers

What are the basic dimensions of Class C airspace?

5 NM radius core surface area extending from the surface to 4,000 feet. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum pilot certification is required to operate an aircraft within Class C airspace?

A student pilot certificate. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum equipment is required to operate an aircraft within Class C airspace?

A two-way radio and Mode C capability. Signup and view all the answers

What basic requirement must be met when operating an aircraft through Class C airspace?

Establish two-way radio communications with ATC. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum weather conditions are required when conducting VFR flight operations within Class C airspace?

3 statute miles flight visibility with appropriate cloud clearances. Signup and view all the answers

How is Class C airspace depicted on navigational charts?

A solid magenta line. Signup and view all the answers

What type of Air Traffic Control services are provided when operating within Class C airspace?

Sequenced to the primary airport and basic radar services. Signup and view all the answers

Where is Mode C altitude encoding transponder equipment required?

At or above 10,000 feet MSL, within certain Class B and C areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed an aircraft may be operated within Class C airspace?

200 knots. Signup and view all the answers

What requirement must be met when operating aircraft within Class D airspace?

Establish two-way radio communications with ATC. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum weather conditions are required when conducting VFR flight operations within Class D airspace?

3 statute miles flight visibility and specified cloud clearances. Signup and view all the answers

How is Class D airspace depicted on navigational charts?

With blue segmented lines. Signup and view all the answers

What type of Air Traffic Control services are provided when operating within Class D airspace?

No separation services provided to VFR aircraft. Signup and view all the answers

Is an ATC clearance required if flight operations are conducted through a Class E surface area arrival extension?

False Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Class A Airspace

Operates from 18,000 feet MSL up to FL600.
Requires IFR, Mode C transponder, and two-way radio communication with ATC.
Includes airspace over water within 12 nautical miles of US coasts.

Class B Airspace

Extends from the surface to 10,000 feet MSL, surrounding major airports.
Requires 3 statute miles visibility, ATC clearance, and Mode C transponder.
Configured like an upside-down wedding cake with multiple layers.

Class C Airspace

Ranges from surface to 4,000 feet above airport elevation.
Requires 3 statute miles visibility and ATC communication established.
Includes a 20 nautical mile radius and mandates Mode C transponder.

Class D Airspace

Extends from the surface to 2,500 feet above airport elevation.
Requires 3 statute miles visibility and two-way radio communication with ATC.
Transponder is not mandatory.

Class E Airspace

Generally starts at 14,500 feet MSL, extends to 18,000 feet, and 60,000 feet MSL.
Below 10,000 feet, requires 3 statute miles visibility.
Covers controlled airspace for FAR flights and VFR flights.

Class G Airspace

For altitudes above 10,000 feet MSL and 1,200 feet AGL, requires 5 statute miles visibility.
At or below 1,200 feet, day requires 1 statute mile visibility, night requires 3 statute miles.
Includes specific cloud clearance requirements.

VFR Operations in Class A Airspace

Not permissible without ATC authorization.
Requires operation under IFR.

Pilot Certification for Class A Airspace

A minimum of a private pilot license with an instrument rating is required.

Equipment for Class A Airspace

A two-way radio and Mode C altitude encoding transponder are necessary.

Class B Airspace Certification Requirements

Must have at least a private pilot certificate to operate within Class B airspace.
Student and recreational pilots must meet specific regulations.

Class B Airspace Equipment Requirements

Requires an operable two-way radio and Mode C altitude encoding transponder.

ATC Clearance for Class B Airspace

Pilots must obtain ATC clearance before entering Class B airspace.

Weather for VFR in Class B Airspace

Must maintain 3 statute miles visibility and clear of clouds.

Class B Airspace Chart Depiction

Shown on Sectional and Terminal Area Charts with solid shaded blue lines.

Basic ATC Services in Class B Airspace

VFR pilots receive sequencing and separation assistance.

Wake Turbulence Responsibility in Class B Airspace

Pilots are responsible for avoiding wake turbulence, despite ATC assistance.

Speed Restrictions Class B Airspace

No more than 250 knots below 10,000 feet; must adhere to indicated speed limits.

Class C Airspace Dimensions

Typically consists of a 5 NM radius core and a 10 NM shelf, up to 4,000 feet.

Pilot Certification for Class C Airspace

A student pilot certificate suffices for operations in Class C airspace.

Equipment for Class C Airspace

Must have a two-way radio and Mode C altitude reporting equipment.

Communication Requirement for Class C Airspace

Establish two-way radio communication with ATC before entering.

Class C Airspace Chart Depiction

Shown with a solid magenta line on relevant navigational charts.

ATC Services in Class C Airspace

Provides sequencing, separation, and basic radar services for VFR aircraft.

Terminal Radar Services for VFR Aircraft

Includes basic radar services and separation based on flight type and workload.

Mode C Transponder Requirements

Mandatory in specific airspaces including Class B, Class C, and above 10,000 feet MSL.

Speed Limitations in Class C Airspace

No operating at more than 200 knots below 2,500 feet near primary airports.

Class D Airspace Communication Requirement

Must establish communication with ATC before entering Class D airspace.

Departure from Non-towered Satellite Airports in Class D Airspace

Must maintain communication with ATC after departure.

Weather Conditions for Class D Airspace

Requires 3 statute miles visibility and specific cloud clearance.

Class D Airspace Depiction

Depicted with blue segmented lines on Sectional and Terminal charts.

ATC Services in Class D Airspace

No separation services provided; pilots are responsible for traffic avoidance.

Class E Airspace Examples

Includes non-towered airport surface areas, extensions to controlled airspace, and transition areas.

Transition Airspace Configuration

Typically extends upward from 700 or 1,200 feet AGL for transitioning aircraft.### Class E Airspace Overview
Class E airspace transition areas operate continuously at 700 feet and 1,200 feet AGL regardless of airport status.
Enroute domestic areas provide controlled airspace for IFR ATC services where Federal airways are insufficient.
Federal airways and low-altitude RNAV routes extend from 1,200 feet AGL to but not including 18,000 feet MSL.
Offshore airspace extends from a specified altitude to below 18,000 feet MSL, offering controlled airspace beyond 12 nautical miles from the U.S. coast.
Class E airspace overlying the continental U.S. generally ranges from 14,500 feet MSL to but not including 18,000 feet MSL.

Class E Airspace Operating Rules

Minimum pilot certification required is a student pilot certificate.
There are no specific equipment requirements for Class E airspace.
Pilots are not required to establish communications unless operating in controlled airspace areas.

Transition Areas Purpose

Class E transition areas (700 feet AGL - magenta vignette; 1,200 feet AGL - blue vignette) help separate IFR operations from VFR traffic near airports with approved instrument procedures.

Communication Requirements

Communication must be established with control towers within Class E airspace prior to entering within four nautical miles and up to 2,500 feet AGL.

Chart Depiction of Class E Airspace

Class E airspace below 14,500 feet MSL is depicted on Sectional Terminal and IFR Enroute Low Altitude charts.
Limitation representations include magenta vignettes for 700 feet AGL and blue vignettes for other floors adjacent to uncontrolled airspace.

Class G Airspace Overview

Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace not designated as Classes A, B, C, D, or E, where ATC has no authority to control traffic.
It extends from surface level up to, but not exceeding, 14,500 feet MSL.

Flight Operations in Class G Airspace

Minimum cloud clearance at night below 1,200 feet AGL requires visibility of at least one statute mile.
The main distinction between Class G and controlled airspace is the differing visibility and cloud clearance requirements.

Entry into Controlled Airspace

VFR flights cannot enter Class B, C, D, or E airspace if VFR minimums cannot be maintained unless a Special VFR clearance is obtained.
Special VFR operations are prohibited at night for fixed-wing aircraft unless the pilot is instrument-rated.

Special Use Airspace Types

Prohibited Areas: Airspace where flights are entirely prohibited for security or national welfare.
Restricted Areas: Airspace where flights are not prohibited but are subject to operational restrictions due to hazards.
Warning Areas: Extend three nautical miles from the coast, warning about risks to non-participating aircraft.
MOA (Military Operating Areas): Separate military training from IFR traffic, with frequent status changes; caution is advised.
Alert Areas: Areas with high training volume or unusual aerial activity, demanding pilot vigilance.
Controlled Firing Areas: Activities suspended if an aircraft approaches; not charted.

Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ)

ADIZ: Airspace where identification and control of aircraft are mandated for national security.
Operational requirements include filing flight plans, having two-way radio, equipped transponder, and proper position reporting.

Notable Airspace Information

TRSAs provide additional radar services; pilots are encouraged to participate but it's not mandatory.
Special Flight Rules Areas (SFRAs) have specific federal aviation regulations; always check for NOTAMs for updates.
Military Training Routes use specific identifiers (four digits for routes below 1,500 feet AGL and three digits for those above).

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Test your knowledge of airspace classifications with these flashcards. Each card provides a definition of various airspace types, focusing on their specific requirements and regulations. Immerse yourself in the world of aviation terminology!