Airspace Overview Lecture

Introduction

• Presenter: Vince Riley, CFI, Double I, Rotor Wing, Fixed Wing
• Purpose: To discuss airspace regulations and requirements for pilots, particularly focusing on visibility and cloud clearance.
• Relevance: Useful for private pilot check rides, bi-annual flight reviews, or general knowledge.

Airspace Designation and Altitudes

• Reference: FAA Regulations Part 71.
• Class A Airspace
  • Begins at 18,000 feet to Flight Level 600 (60,000 feet).
  • Requires an IFR clearance.

Class E Airspace

• Location: Everywhere from the bottom of Class A down to 1200 feet AGL across the US.
  • Exceptions: Some airports have Class E down to 700 feet AGL.
• Important Note: Delineation at 10,000 feet MSL changes visibility and cloud clearance requirements.
• Charts: Section 91.155 for cloud clearance and visibility requirements.

Class G Airspace

• Location: Below Class E starting at the surface.
• Visibility and Cloud Clearance:
  • Less than 1200 feet AGL: 1 statute mile clear of clouds (day); 3 statute miles visibility with basic cloud clearance (night).
  • Basic Cloud Clearance: 500 feet below, 1000 feet above, 2000 feet horizontally.

Cessna 152 and F-111 Mnemonics

• Cessna 152
  • Used to remember visibility and cloud clearance requirements below 10,000 feet MSL in controlled airspace.
  • 3 statute miles visibility and basic cloud clearance.
• F-111
  • Used to remember above 10,000 feet MSL requirements.
  • 5 statute miles visibility, 1000 feet below, 1000 feet above, and 1 statute mile horizontally.

Airspace Examples and Applications

• Class B Airspace
  • 3 statute miles visibility, clear of clouds.
  • Must have clearance and a transponder with ADSB.
• Class C and D Airspace
  • Follows Cessna 152 guidelines.
• Surface E Airspace
  • Active Airspace: Cessna 152 guidelines.

Practical Scenarios

• Examples Provided:
  • Different altitude and airspace scenarios were discussed with the focus on applying the visibility and cloud clearance memory aids.

Conclusion

• Understanding airspace designations crucial for pilot navigation and safety.
• Encouraged interaction and further learning through comments and additional video resources.