Overview
This lesson covers the essential details, rules, and procedures for operating in Class D (Delta) airspace for private pilots.
Class D Airspace Basics
- Class D airspace surrounds smaller, towered airports.
- Typically shaped as a cylinder with a 5 statute mile radius, from surface up to 2,500 feet above ground level (AGL).
- Exact dimensions and limits are found on a VFR sectional chart.
Identifying Class D on Charts
- Depicted by a blue segmented circle around the airport on sectional charts.
- Blue airport symbols indicate a towered field (Class D).
- Magenta segmented circles indicate Class E airspace that starts at the surface (untowered).
Altitude Limits and Chart Markings
- The upper limit is shown in a box (in hundreds of feet MSL) inside the blue segmented circle.
- A minus sign before the number (e.g., "-35") means the airspace goes up to, but does not include, that altitude.
- Exceeding the upper limit means you are not in Class D airspace.
Entry and Communication Procedures
- Two-way radio communication with ATC is required before entering and must be maintained inside Class D airspace.
- State your location, intentions, and altitude when calling the tower.
- Do not enter until ATC responds with your call sign.
- Receiving runway assignment is not a landing clearance.
- Only enter after hearing your call sign; land only after you are explicitly cleared.
VFR Weather Minimums for Class D
- Minimum visibility required is 3 statute miles.
- Must remain at least 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above, and 2,000 feet horizontally from clouds (memory aid: 3152).
Equipment Requirements
- Only a working two-way radio is required for Class D airspace.
- ADS-B or a transponder is not required for entry.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Class D Airspace — Controlled airspace around smaller, towered airports, usually with a 5-mile radius up to 2,500' AGL.
- VFR Sectional Chart — A map showing airspace boundaries and airport information for VFR pilots.
- ATC (Air Traffic Control) — Ground-based controllers managing airspace and aircraft communications.
- MSL (Mean Sea Level) — Altitude measurement referenced to average sea level.
- VFR (Visual Flight Rules) — Flight rules requiring pilots to operate with reference to the ground and visible horizon.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review a VFR sectional chart for Class D airspace examples and practice identifying limits.
- Memorize communication and entry procedures for Class D airspace.
- Recall the VFR weather minimums using the "3152" memory aid.