Understanding Class G Airspace Basics

Oct 16, 2024

Lecture on Class G Airspace

Introduction

  • Speaker: John from fly8michaelpha.com
  • Topic: Understanding Class G Airspace
  • Focus on identification, altitudes, and locations

Overview of Class G Airspace

  • Uncontrolled airspace
  • Identification: Think of 'G' as 'Ground'
  • Default Airspace: Exists everywhere touching the ground

Altitude Considerations

  • Traditionally believed to extend from surface up to 14,500 feet MSL
    • Outdated information
  • Current Understanding:
    • Extends from surface to 1,200 feet AGL (Above Ground Level)
    • Class E airspace takes over above 1,200 feet AGL

Sectional Chart Analysis

  • Legend Indicators:
    • Floors of Class E airspace greater than 700 feet AGL
    • Class E exists at 1,200 feet AGL unless designated otherwise
  • Magenta Vignette:
    • Indicates Class E airspace not starting at 1,200 feet AGL
    • Means Class G airspace tops at 700 feet AGL, shifts to Class E

Example: Venice Airport

  • Class G airspace from surface to 1,200 feet AGL
  • At Venice Airport, it stops at 700 feet AGL due to magenta vignette

Special Cases

  • Blue Dashed Lines:
    • Indicate Class G airspace with a floor other than 14,500 feet MSL
    • Examples:
      • Surface to 1,300 feet MSL
      • Surface to 2,700 feet MSL
  • Offshore Considerations:
    • Often irrelevant due to distance offshore (e.g., 12 miles ADA line)
  • Western US:
    • Class G airspace may extend up to 9,000 feet MSL
    • Surface altitudes already high (e.g., 6,758 feet)

Simplified Rule

  • Class G airspace generally from ground to 1,200 feet AGL
  • Exception: Magenta ring indicates different altitudes

Conclusion

  • Reminder to remember key points about Class G airspace
  • Encouragement to interact with content (subscribe, comment, etc.)

Additional Resources

  • Website: fly8michaelph.com for courses and gear
  • Encouragement to engage with online resources

Ensure to revisit these notes and check the sectional charts for real-world application. Understanding airspace regulations is crucial for safe flying.