Class C Airspace Overview

Definition and Structure

• General Definition: Class C airspace is typically from the surface up to 4,000 feet above airport elevation (MSL), surrounding airports with operational control towers and a certain number of IFR operations or passenger enplanements.
• Typical Layout:
  • Two-layer design:
    • Inner Core: 5 nautical mile radius, surface to 4,000 feet AGL.
    • Outer Shelf: 10 nautical mile radius, starts no lower than 1,200 feet AGL up to 4,000 feet AGL.
  • Note: Configurations can vary to suit airport needs.

Examples

• Fort Wayne, Indiana:
  • Inner ring: 5 nautical miles radius, surface to 4,800 feet MSL (4,000 feet AGL based on 815 feet MSL airport elevation).
  • Outer ring: 10 nautical miles radius, 2,000 feet MSL bottom to 4,800 feet MSL top (1,200 feet AGL bottom).
• Louisville International Airport:
  • Standard 10 nautical mile outer radius, but inner ring altered to accommodate nearby Bowman Airport.
  • Outer shelf starts at 1,700 feet MSL in areas due to obstacles and surrounding airspace.

Pilot and Equipment Requirements

• No Specific Pilot Certification Required: Any pilot, including student pilots, can operate.
• Required Equipment:
  • Operable two-way radio for communication with ATC.
  • Altitude-reporting transponder (Mode C or Mode S) when operating in or above Class C airspace.
  • Note: Transponder not required under the outer shelf.

Communication and Entry

• Two-Way Communication:
  • Must be established and maintained with ATC.
  • Entry permitted when ATC reads back aircraft’s tail number.
• Separation and Safety:
  • VFR aircraft separated from IFR aircraft.
  • Pilots must maintain their own separation from other VFR aircraft.

Weather and Speed Restrictions

• VFR Weather:
  • Minimum visibility: 3 statute miles.
  • Must remain 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above, and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds.
• Speed Limit:
  • Max 200 knots within 4 nautical miles of primary airport and below 2,500 feet AGL.

Summary

• Class C airspace: Two-tier shape, extends up to 4,000 feet AGL.
• Pilot Requirements: Two-way radio, Mode C transponder for in/above airspace.
• Check Resources: Always verify airspace dimensions and altitudes via airport facility directory and charts.
• Operational Hours: Some Class C towers do not operate 24/7; check AFD for hours and alternate classifications when towers are closed.