Class Bravo Airspace

Definition and Characteristics

• Location: Surrounds the nation's busiest airports in terms of IFR operations or passenger numbers.
• Altitude: Extends from surface to 10,000 feet MSL.
• Configuration: Individually tailored; consists of a surface area and two or more layers, resembling an upside-down wedding cake.
• Design Purpose: Contains all published instrument procedures.

Requirements and Operations

• ATC Clearance: Required for all aircraft to operate within Class B airspace.
• VFR Operations: Cloud clearance requirement is to be clear of clouds.
• Separation Services: Provided to all aircraft cleared into the airspace.
• MSL Ceiling: Defined in terms of MSL, not AGL, with minimum defined ceiling normally at 10,000 feet MSL.

Configuration Details

• Surface Area & Layers: At least two layers or shelves with each layer having a lateral boundary extending out from the center.
• Top Altitude: Normally 10,000 feet MSL but can vary.
• 30 Nautical Mile Veil: An important numeric limit to remember.
• Research: Vital to fully understand the boundaries of each Class B airspace.

Examples

Minneapolis International Airport

• Design: Blue lines on sectional charts indicate boundaries.
• Layers:
  • Center layer: Surface to 10,000 feet MSL.
  • Second layer: Starts at 2,300 feet MSL.
  • Third layer: Starts at 3,000 feet MSL.
  • Fourth layer: Starts at 4,000 feet MSL.
• Runway Influence: Airspace extends in certain directions based on runway layout.

Philadelphia International Airport

• Layout: Circular boundaries with extensions to the west and east.
• Top Altitude: Only 7,000 feet MSL.

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport

• Top Altitude: Extends to 12,500 feet MSL.
• Shape: More rectangular compared to other Class B airspaces.

Conclusion

• Every Class B airspace is unique and tailored to its specific airport.
• Future Lessons: Expected on Class Bravo entry requirements and VFR weather conditions.