Class E Airspace Overview

Overview

This lecture covers the boundaries, markings, variations, and weather minimums of Class Echo (E) airspace, which is commonly used by private pilots.

Class Echo Airspace Basics

• Class Echo airspace is controlled airspace that is not Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, or Delta.
• The upper limit of Class E is up to, but not including, 18,000 feet MSL (ends at 17,999 feet MSL).
• The lower limit of Class E varies and must be determined from sectional charts.

Determining Class E Boundaries

• On sectionals with no markings, Class E starts at 1,200 feet above ground level (AGL).
• Inside thick, hazy magenta rings, Class E starts at 700 feet AGL.
• Segmented magenta rings indicate Class E airspace down to the surface to protect IFR operations near airports.
• Hazy blue markings mean Class E starts at 14,500 feet MSL, with Class G below down to the surface.
• Above flight level 600 (FL600), the airspace is also Class E.

Class E and Other Airspace Interactions

• Class G airspace is always underneath Class E and extends down to the surface.
• When control towers (Class D) close, the airspace may revert to Class E or G as noted in the chart supplement.
• The chart supplement provides specific information about airspace reversion times and conditions.

Weather Minimums in Class E Airspace

• Below 10,000 feet MSL: 3 miles visibility, 500 feet below, 2,000 feet horizontal, and 1,000 feet above clouds ("3152" rule).
• At or above 10,000 feet MSL: 5 miles visibility, 1,000 feet below, 1 mile horizontal, and 1,000 feet above clouds.
• Stricter minimums above 10,000 feet MSL account for higher aircraft speeds and necessary separation.

Key Terms & Definitions

• MSL (Mean Sea Level) — altitude measured above average sea level.
• AGL (Above Ground Level) — altitude measured above the ground beneath the aircraft.
• IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) — flight operations using instruments for navigation.
• VFR (Visual Flight Rules) — flight operations using visual reference outside the cockpit.
• Class G — uncontrolled airspace extending from the surface below other airspace classes.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review sectional charts to identify Class E boundaries.
• Read the chart supplement for details on airspace reversion times.
• Prepare for the next lesson on Class Golf airspace.