Airspace Flashcards
(223 cards)
1
Q
What are the two categories of airspace?
A
Regulatory and Non-regulatory.
2
Q
What kinds of airspace qualify as “regulatory”?
A
A, B, C, D, E, Restricted Areas, Prohibited Areas.
3
Q
A
4
Q
What kinds of airspace qualify as “non-regulatory
A
MOAs, Warning Areas, Alert Areas, CFAs, NSAs.
5
Q
What are the 4 types of airspace?
A
Controlled, Uncontrolled, Special Use, Other.
6
Q
What is “controlled airspace”?
A
Airspace under the jurisdiction of ATC. It’s where ATC services are available.
7
Q
How is Class A airspace charted on a sectional?
A
It’s not.
8
Q
What are the dimensions of Class A airspace?
A
18,000ft MSL up to FL600, extending 12nm off the coast.
9
Q
When flying above 18,000ft, what should you do to the altimeter?
Why?
A
Set 29.92. Flight levels/pressure altitudes are used above 18,000ft MSL
10
Q
What are the operating rules and equipment requirements for operating in Class A airspace?
A
Must be a current, instrument-rated (IRA) pilot flying an instrument-equipped aircraft on an IFR flight plan. A mode-C transponder is required (mode-S transponders have mode-C altitude reporting capability, so any time there is a mode-C requirement, mode-S transponders will also satisfy the requirement).
11
Q
Are there any Class A speed restrictions?
A
Less than mach 1.
12
Q
What are the basic VFR weather minimums associated with Class A airspace?
A
None, flying IFR is required.
13
Q
How is Class B airspace charted on the sectional?
A
Bold blue line with the associated MSL altitudes listed in each shelf section.
14
Q
What are its dimensions?
A
Generally looks like an upside down wedding cake, extending up to around 10,000ft MSL. Each B airport has individually tailored airspace to accommodate its approach and departure operations.
15
Q
What equipment is required to operate in class B?
A
2-way radios and a mode-C transponder operating in or above the airspace. In addition to being required within the Class B airspace, the mode-C transponder is required when operating within the mode-C veil, so anywhere within 30nm of the Class B airport.
16
Q
So if there’s a B shelf that extends beyond the mode-C veil, and you’re flying in or above that B airspace, a mode-C transponder is required?
A
yes
17
Q
What are the pilot certification requirements to fly in Class B?
A
Must be either a private pilot, or a student pilot with an endorsement to fly in that particular B airspace; if a landing is involved, you would also need an endorsement to land at that particular Class B airport.
18
Q
Do any Class B airports completely prohibit student pilot solo operations?
A
Yes, they are listed in the FAR/AIM
19
Q
PHX Approach responds to your request to transition the Class B airspace with, “Cessna 976SP, standby.” Can you enter?
A
No
20
Q
What do you need to hear first to enter class B?
A
“Tail Number + cleared into the Class B.”
21
Q
Say you’re inbound to land VFR at a Class B airport. How do you determine which approach frequency to use to initiate contact?
A
The side of the sectional has a section called “Class B, Class C, TRSA, and Selected Approach Control Frequencies.” I would use that. I could also get the frequencies off of the TAC chart (zoom in a bit on the sectional on Foreflight to bring up the TAC); they are listed in blue boxes in each approach sector.
22
Q
What are the basic VFR weather minimums associated with class B?
A
3sm and clear-of-clouds.
23
Q
What are the basic VFR weather minimums associated with class B below 1,200ft AGL?
A
SAME
24
Q
What are the basic VFR weather minimums associated with class B at night?
A
same
25
Why just clear-of-clouds in Class B, whereas in all of the other supposedly less-restrictive, lower stakes types of airspace, you have to stay even farther away from the clouds?
Because in Class B, all aircraft (VFR and IFR) receive separation and sequencing services.
26
So VFR aircraft are separated from other VFR aircraft while receiving Class B service?
Yes
27
So traffic avoidance is ATC’s responsibility when operating in Class B airspace?
No, not while in VMC. In VMC, ultimate responsibility falls on the PIC.
28
What is the maximum airspeed permitted in Class B airspace?
There are no speed restrictions inside Class B; however, most B airspace exists below 10,000ft MSL, which entails a 250kt indicated speed limitation. So while flying in Class B airspace below 10,000ft MSL, the max indicated speed is 250kts.
29
Are there any other speed restrictions associated with Class B airspace?
Can’t fly faster than 200kts beneath a B shelf or in a B corridor.
30
Are there any exceptions to the speed restrictions (this applies to Class C and D speed restrictions as well)?
If the plane’s minimum safe speed is faster than what the regs permit, then the plane can operate at its minimum safe speed.
31
Would you feel comfortable flying 100ft below a B shelf? Why or why not?
No. The AIM specifically advises pilots not to fly close to B shelves. There are large, fast, passenger-carrying aircraft at those altitudes.
32
So what’s a good distance to fly below a B shelf?
At least 500ft.
33
Say I wanted to fly from an airport located on one side of the Class B, to an airport on the direct opposite side. What are my most efficient options to do this?
Check if there is a VFR transition or corridor available. If neither of those exist, then reference the flyway chart.
34
What is a Class B VFR transition route, and where do you find the instructions for these?
A Class B transition route is a recommended flight path for VFR traffic to use when traversing Class B airspace. The instructions are on TAC charts. In Foreflight you can download the document, it’s in the “Visual Chart Supplemental” folder.
35
Is a clearance required to fly a VFR transition route?
Yes. You’re flying through Class B airspace, so typical Class B clearance procedures apply.
36
Are there altitude restrictions on these routes?
Yes, whatever is stated on the Visual Chart Supplemental.
37
What is a VFR corridor?
These are holes in the B airspace through which VFR aircraft can fly.
38
Is a clearance necessary for flying through a VFR corridor?
No, you are not technically flying through B airspace. But each corridor has its own unique procedures that must be followed.
39
Where are these VFR Corridors listed? What are some examples of airports that have corridors?
They are in the Visual Chart Supplemental folder as well. KSAN has a corridor.
40
What is a VFR flyway?
These are efficient flight paths that pilots can use to navigate around complex terminal environment airspace.
41
Is a clearance required to fly Flyaways?
No, the recommended altitudes and paths on the flyway charts keep you out of B/C/D airspace.
42
Where are these Flyaways listed?
On the back of the TAC. Or in Foreflight, in the “Fly Charts” folder.
43
How is Class C airspace charted and what are the dimensions?
Charted with solid magenta lines with the associated MSL altitudes listed in each shelf section. Dimension-wise, Class C airspace, like with B airspace, is individually tailored to the traffic needs of the primary airport. Typical dimensions are as follows: a 5nm radius core surface area that extends from the surface up to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation, and a 10nm radius shelf area that extends no lower than 1,200 feet up to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation. There is also an uncharted procedural “Outer Area” that extends approximately 20nm from the airport
44
What are the equipment requirements for operating in C airspace?
2-way radios and a mode-C transponder in and above (BUT NOT BELOW) the C airspace.
45
Define Class C “outer area”?
It’s an area that extends 20nm out from the primary Class C airport within which VFR aircraft can receive “Class C service.”
46
What is “Class C service”?
Think flight following + separation and sequencing. Specifically, this service provides, in addition to basic radar service, approved separation between IFR and VFR aircraft, and sequencing of VFR arrivals to the primary airport.
47
What does “basic radar service” cover?
Flight following stuff: safety alerts, traffic advisories, and limited radar vectoring . . . workload permitting.
48
As a VFR aircraft receiving Class C service, what kind of separation services can you expect
You can expect separation from IFR traffic. Always the PIC’s responsibility to see and avoid in VMC, though.
49
What minimum pilot certification is required to operate in Class C airspace?
No specific certification required (i.e. a solo student could fly in Class C without a Class C-specific solo endorsement).
50
Communications-wise, what is required to enter Class C airspace?
You must establish communications
51
Define “establish communications” in class C airspace
ATC must say your tail number.
52
What if ATC says, “Cessna 976SP, standby” in class C airspace, Can you enter?
Yes
53
How about, “Cessna 976SP, remain outside the Class C airspace” can you enter?
No
54
Say ATC is distracted and says, “Traffic calling SE of Tucson, continue inbound, maintain present altitude and say call sign.” You respond, “Continue inbound, maintain altitude, Cessna 976SP.” Can you enter the Class C?
No, not until ATC responds with my tail number.
55
How far out are you expected to contact ATC when landing at a Class C airport?
20nm, it’s on the sectional.
56
Is checkng in 20nm away in class C required or advisory?
advisory
57
Do you contact approach or tower when 20nm outside of class C?
approach
58
Why do we contact class C so far out (20nm)?
Class C airports get a lot of IFR/passenger-carrying operations. Because of this they are serviced by approach radars, and this allows for sequencing among the IFR aircraft.
59
What speed limitations are associated with Class C airspace? Within
4nm of the airport, up to 2,500ft AGL, the max indicated airspeed is 200kts.
60
So if I’m in the Class C, but more than 4nm out from the airport, I can go faster than 200kts indicated?
yes
61
What are the basic VFR weather minimums in Class C airspace Day and Night?
3sm visibility, 1000’ above clouds, 500’ below clouds, 2000’ horizontal from clouds (aka 3152) Day and Night
62
What is the procedure for taking off out of an untowered satellite airport located within the Class C (or D) airspace surface area? Is a takeoff clearance from ATC required?
No, however two-way radio communications must be established as soon as practicable after departing with the ATC facility having jurisdiction over Class C (or D) airspace.
63
KIWA has a lot more traffic than KTUS, and yet KTUS is Class C and KIWA is Class D. Why is that?
The airspace classes are designated not by the overall amount of traffic, but by the amount of IFR, passenger-carrying, and commercial traffic. KTUS has a lot more of that sort of traffic, which necessitates an approach radar and additional ATC services.
64
What are some of the ways that operating out of a Class C airport differs from operating out of a Class D airport?
Departing VFR out of a Class C airport feels similar to departing IFR out of a D airport: usually when departing VFR out of a C airport, the pilot calls up Clearance first and specifies the intended direction of departure and climb altitude, after which Clearance provides a route/altitude clearance and a beacon code. Then the pilot calls up ground for taxi instructions. After departure the pilot can expect a hand off to Departure, and then VFR Flight Following is automatically provided. When arriving, the main difference between C and D airspace is that, for Class C, the pilot contacts Approach Control 20nm out, whereas in Class D, the pilot usually contacts Tower approximately 10nm out.
65
How is Class D airspace depicted on a sectional, and what are its dimensions?
Class D is depicted with a dashed blue line, with the airspace’s upper limit shown in MSL inside a dashed blue box. As is the case with B and C airspace, the dimensions of D airspace are individually tailored to the needs of the airport it surrounds; typical dimensions, however, are 2,500AGL and a 4nm radius.
66
Is your airport (KIWA) Class D full time?
NO
67
What airspace does part tieme class D revert to, and when?
Refer to the Chart Supplement, which in the case of KIWA states: AIRSPACE: CLASS D svc 1200-0700Z; other times CLASS G. This means that the airspace reverts to Class G (up to the overlying Class E at 700ft) from 12pm - 5am local time, so after applying the -7 hour AZ Zulu conversion.
68
What pilot certification is required to operate in Class D airspace?
No specific certification required.
69
Who do you contact when attempting to enter Class D airspace, and how far out should you initiate contact?
Contact Tower about 10nm out.
70
Can you operate inside Class D airspace without a mode-C transponder?
YES
71
Can you fly at KVNY without a mode-C transponder?
No, KVNY is inside the KBUR mode-C veil.
72
If a mode-C transponder is not required, can you operate with your mode-C transponder turned off?
No, if you have a mode-C transponder it needs to be operating.
73
Other than a mode-C transponder, what other equipment is required to operate in Class D airspace?
2-way radio.
74
What are the communication requirements for entry into Class D airspace?
Same as Class C: must establish communications, i.e. must hear your tail number.
75
What are the basic VFR weather minimums in Class D airspace Day and Night?
Day and night: 3152.
76
What speed limitations are associated with Class D airspace?
Same as Class C: within 4nm of the airport, up to 2,500ft AGL, the max indicated airspeed is 200kts.
77
What if the Class D airspace extends 6nm out from the airport? I can operate within the D for the first 2nm going faster than 200kts?
yes
78
What kind of separation services can VFR aircraft expect in Class D airspace?
None. Only IFR aircraft receive separation services in Class D.
79
Does look out for you at all in Class D
Workload permitting, you’ll receive basic radar service, so traffic advisories and safety alerts and limited vectoring. Safety alerts are always mandatory.
80
What are the various ways Class E airspace can be depicted on a sectional, and what are its various dimensions
SETVODA
Surface
Extension
Transition
Victor Airways
Offshore
Domestic Enroute
Above FL 600
Class E starting at the surface is shown with a dashed magenta line. Class E starting at 700ft AGL is shown with a thicker magenta line that fades into the Class E airspace it surrounds. Class E starting at 1,200ft AGL is shown with a blue line that fades into the Class E airspace it surrounds. Class E airspace starting at a specified altitude is surrounded by a blue zipper-looking line. If not charted otherwise, Class E airspace starts at 14,500ft MSL and extends up to the 18,000ft Class A floor; this 14,500ft - 18,000ft MSL Class E airspace is uncharted. Class E then starts again above FL600 and extends upward into space.
81
What are the pilot certification, equipment, and arrival communication requirements for Class E airspace?
None. However, if operating above 10,000ft MSL (but not below 2,500ft AGL) in Class E, a mode C transponder is required.
82
What are the basic VFR weather minimums in Class E airspace?
Below 10,000ft MSL: 3152. Above 10,000ft MSL: 5sm visibility, 1,000ft above clouds, 1,000ft below clouds, 1sm horizontal from clouds (5111).
83
How about at night?
same
84
What does the last “1” in 5111 represent?
1 statute mile horizontal from clouds.
85
Why are the visibility and cloud clearance requirements increased above 10,000 MSL?
Aircraft move faster at these higher altitudes. More restrictive weather mins provide more time to see and avoid.
86
What is the purpose of Class E airspace?
It has many functions, but essentially Class E exists to provide controlled airspace so that aircraft can receive ATC services.
87
When KRYN tower closes at night, does the Class E surface area extension (the magenta keyhole portion on the sectional) remain Class E? Or like KRYN’s Class D, does it revert to Class G?
Reverts to G.
88
What kind of airspace surrounds victor airways, and what are its dimensions
E
## Footnote
Unless otherwise specified, this Class E starts at 1,200ft AGL and extends up to 18,000ft MSL, 4nm on either side of the airway.
89
90
Define Class G airspace.
Uncontrolled airspace that has not been designated as Class A, B, C, D, or E airspace.
91
What are its dimensions and how is it depicted on a sectional?
Class G airspace is not marked on the sectional. It exists wherever ABCDE airspace doesn’t - i.e. it underlies controlled airspace.
92
What are the Class G airspace basic VFR weather minimums?
Below 1,200ft AGL: 1sm and clear-of-clouds, always (day or night, regardless of MSL alt). Above 1,200ft AGL but below 10,000ft MSL: 1152 during the day, 3152 at night. Above 10,000MSL and above 1,200AGL: 5111 always (day or night).
93
Is IFR flight permitted in Class G airspace? ATC
has no jurisdiction over Class G airspace, so while in the Class G airspace, no IFR services are available. An IRA pilot flying an IFR-equipped plane may fly when the weather conditions are less than basic VFR; having an IFR clearance when operating in such weather is only required when in controlled airspace (91.173) . . . so such a pilot may fly IFR in uncontrolled airspace without a clearance. Still, the pilot here could open herself up to a 91.13 (dangerous and reckless) violation. In fact, the NTSB has ruled that taking off in uncontrolled airspace without a clearance violates 91.13. Also the pilot should be aware that certain rules in 91.177 and 91.179 pertaining to minimum IFR altitudes and the hemispherical rule kick in when operating IFR in uncontrolled airspace.
94
Some airports are towered, but uncontrolled - they are shown on the sectional in blue, but with no controlled airspace surrounding them. Are there any communication requirements associated with these Class G towered airports?
Yes, the pilot must be in contact with the tower within a 4nm radius up to 2,500ft AGL.
95
What are the different types of Special Use Airspace (SUA)?
TTMCPRAWN
T - TFR
T - TRSA
M - MOA
C - Controlled firing area
P - Prohibited
R - Restricted
A - Alert Area
W - Warning Area
W - Wildlife Refuge, Marine Sanctuary
N - NSA
96
What is a Prohibited Area, and how is it depicted on a sectional?
A Prohibited Area contains airspace within which the flight of aircraft is completely prohibited (unless you’re an approved aircraft . . . so like, Air Force One). It is depicted with the same blue hash-marked line as Restricted and Warning Areas, and identified with a “P” followed by a number, e.g. P-40.
97
Where would you find a Prohibited Area?
Camp David, National Mall . . . areas of heightened national security.
98
What is a Restricted Area, and how is it depicted on a sectional?
A Restricted Area contains airspace within which the flight of aircraft, while not always prohibited, is subject to restrictions due to operations being conducted that could be hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft. A Restricted Area is charted with the same blue hash-marked line as Warning and Prohibited Areas, except identified with an “R” followed by a number.
99
Give some examples of why an area be designated a Restricted Area?
Various potentially hazardous (and often invisible) activities, such as artillery firing, aerial gunnery, and guided missiles.
100
Can IFR traffic fly through a Restricted Area?
If the Restricted Area is not active, yes. If the restricted area IS active, then ATC will keep IFR traffic out of the restricted airspace.
101
Is a clearance necessary when flying IFR through an inactive Restricted Area without a clearance?
no
102
Can VFR traffic fly through a Restricted Area
No, not when it is active.
103
Can you fly through a restricted area when it’s not active?
Yes it’s permitted, but it’s usually a good idea to call the controlling agency to confirm before flying through the area.
104
For the 2310-A Restricted Area north of the city of Florence, show me how you would go about determining its controlling agency and frequency in order to ask about its active status
Look up 2310-A on the top of the sectional (use Settings \> Map Touch Action \> Bring Chart Legend To Front on Foreflight), or call a briefer, or tap the Restricted Area on your iPad, locate the frequency, and call the controlling agency from the plane.
105
What is a Warning Area, and how is it depicted on the sectional?
It’s an area of defined dimensions off the U.S. coast that warns pilots of activity that may be hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft. A Warning Area extends from 3 nautical miles outward, charted with the same blue, hash-marked line as Restricted and Prohibited Areas, except identified with a “W” followed by a number. Warning Areas can be over international and/or domestic waters.
106
Is an ATC clearance necessary to enter a Warning Area?
No, but use caution.
107
What is the purpose of a MOA?
Primarily to separate military traffic from IFR traffic. A MOA also serves as a warning to VFR traffic of possible high-speed military flight activity.
108
Do military aircraft have to abide by the Part 91 aerobatic and speed restrictions in a MOA?
NO
109
How can you determine if a MOA is active
Same procedures as for Restricted and Warning Areas.
110
Can VFR traffic fly into a MOA without an ATC clearance?
Yes, but use caution.
111
Can IFR traffic fly through a MOA?
Absent the rare occasion where ATC is able to coordinate and provide separation, IFR traffic will not be cleared through a MOA.
112
What is an Alert Area and how is it depicted on a sectional?
This is an area used to alert nonparticipating pilots of either a heightened volume of training activity, or of an unusual type of aerial activity. They are charted with magenta, hash-marked lines.
113
Do Alert Areas have active times and controlling agencies?
they can
114
Where do you find Alert Area information?
Sectional or Foreflight or briefer, same procedure as for Restricted/Warning Areas.
115
How do you determine the reason for the Alert Area status?
This will be charted along with the name of the Alert Area. E.g. “Alert Area A-231 Concentrated Student Jet Transition Training.” You could also contact the controlling agency.
116
If an Alert Area surrounds a Class D or C airport, is that C/D airspace considered part of the Alert Area?
no
117
What is a CFA, and how is it depicted on the sectional?
A CFA contains activities that, if not conducted in a controlled environment, could be hazardous to nonparticipating aircraft. Unlike with Restricted Areas, though, CFAs utilize spotter aircraft, ground look-outs, and radar to detect any aircraft approaching the area, in which case the hazardous operations are suspended immediately. Because of this, CFAs are not charted.
118
What is an NSA, and how is it depicted on the sectional?
An NSA consists of airspace of defined vertical and lateral dimensions established at a location where there is a requirement for increased security and safety of ground facilities. An NSA is charted with a thicker broken magenta line.
119
Can you fly through an NSA without an ATC clearance?
Yes, generally.
120
would you fly through an NSA?
No, pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid them
121
Can you always fly through an NSA without a clearance?
No, sometimes flight operations are temporarily prohibited.
122
How can you determine when flight operations are prohibited in an NSA?
NOTAM
123
What are the other types of airspace?
Local Airport Advisory (LAA)/Information Services (RAIS), Military Training Route (MTR), Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR), Parachute Jump Operation, VFR Corridor, VFR Transition, VFR Flyway, Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) and Special Air Traffic Rules (SATR), Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA), Wildlife Area, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Area (NOAA), Tethered Balloon, Weather Reconnaissance Area (WRA).
124
What is an LAA?
Local Airport Advisory It’s a service available only in Alaska where the Flight Service Station is located on-field at an uncontrolled airport and can provide local airport advisories to arriving and departing aircraft.
125
What is a Remote Airport Information Service (RAIS
This is when a FSS provides support for short term special events like small to medium-sized fly-ins. These are advertised by D-NOTAMs and do not include weather info
126
What are MTRs, and how are they charted
Military Training Routes MTRs are routes used by the military for low altitude training. On sectionals they look like V-airways, except thinner and gray.
127
What differences would you expect between an MTR named “IR267” and an MTR named “VR2673.”
The former is an IFR route and has segments above 1,500ft AGL;
the latter is a VFR route and has no segment above 1,500ft AGL.
128
Can nonparticipating aircraft (non-military) fly on MTRs?
NO
129
Can participating aircraft (military) fly faster than 250kts while on MTRs?
YES
130
How could you determine whether an MTR will be in use during your flight?
contact FSS
131
What is the route width of an MTR?
Varies, 4 to 16 miles.
132
What is a TFR?
A TFR is a tool used by the FAA to restrict aircraft operations within designated areas.
133
What are some of the purposes for establishing a TFR?
To protect persons and property in the air or on the surface from an existing or imminent hazard (e.g. hijackings, imminent volcano eruptions, toxic gas leaks, or nuclear incidents); provide a safe environment for the operation of disaster relief aircraft (e.g. forest fires, or aircraft relief activities after a natural disaster); prevent an unsafe congestion of sightseeing aircraft above an incident or event that may generate a high degree of public interest (e.g. sporting events); protect declared national disasters for humanitarian reasons in the State of Hawaii; protect the President, Vice President, or other public figures; provide a safe environment for space agency operations.
134
What kind of NOTAM is a TFR?
FDC
135
How do you check for TFRs along your flight route?
Ask a FSS/briefer. On Foreflight, after selecting for TFRs, they will appear on the sectional in red when active, yellow when inactive. Tap on the TFR to bring up more info about it. Tfr.faa.gov is another available tool.
136
Is flying through a TFR ever permitted?
Each TFR’s restrictions are unique. The presidential TFRs, for instance, generally have an extremely restrictive inner ring and a slightly less restrictive outer ring. Occasionally VFR traffic with a beacon code in communication with ATC may transition through the outer ring, whereas the inner ring may allow, say, 121 IFR traffic only. The restrictions are specified in the NOTAMs.
137
Say you’re intercepted after accidentally busting a TFR. What basic intercept procedures would you be expected to follow?
Squawk 7700; communicate on 121.5; rock your wings to acknowledge instructions; follow the interceptor aircraft.
138
What tools do you use to avoid Parachute Jump Areas while planning your route?
These areas are shown on sectionals with a parachute symbol. I also speak with a briefer about my route of flight, and he or she will notify me of any active jump activity.
139
Does the placement of the parachute symbol give an indication of where the drop zone is located, or are the symbols just placed randomly around their associated airport?
They don’t give a *precise* location, but as long as there is space available they are placed as close as possible to where the jump ops generally occur.
140
how can you determine the exact location of the drop zone?
Check the Chart Supplement.
141
If there is no parachute symbol at an airport, does that mean that jump operations do not occur there?
No, the parachute symbol is primarily for airports that have a high amount of jumps per year (over 1,000).
142
So how would you know if jump operations existed at a certain airport?
Check the Chart Supplement.
143
Enroute, what is the best way to protect yourself against flying through an active Parachute Jump Area?
Pick up flight following. The drop plane notifies the controlling agency prior to each drop, so ATC can give you warnings.
144
What is an ADIZ and how is it depicted on a sectional?
What is an ADIZ and how is it depicted on a sectional? designates an area over land or water at which the ready identification, location, and control of all aircraft (except for the Department of Defense and law enforcement aircraft) is required in the interest of national security. These are charted with a dotted magenta line, like you can see at the U.S./Mexico border.
145
What kind of equipment is required to cross an ADIZ
2-way radios and a mode-C transponder.
146
Can VFR aircraft cross an ADIZ?
Yes, provided certain requirements are met.
147
What are the requirements for VFR aircraft to cross the ADIZ?
* FTMN
* File and pick up a D-VFR flight plan;
* Take off within 5 minutes of the scheduled departure time;
* Maintain 2-way radio communication with the appropriate ATC facility and squawk the assigned beacon code;
* Notify ATC within 15 minutes of crossing the border and give the position, altitude, and time at which you intend to cross the ADIZ.
148
Is there an ADIZ at the U.S./Canadian border?
NO
149
What is a SFRA/SATR, and how are these areas charted?
Special Flight Rules Area
Special Air Traffic Rule
A SFRA or a SATR signifies an area within which the flight of aircraft is subject to the unique air traffic rules specified in Part 93. These rules and the nature of the operations vary among each SFRA and SATR. The way these areas are charted also varies. Usually SFRAs are designated with a blue castellated line and SATRs utilize a blue or magenta hash-marked line . . . but again, it can vary.
150
Say your flight is going to take you through a SATR or an SFRA. How do you determine what the special procedures are that you will need to follow?
Look up that specific SATR or SFRA in Part 93. Additional information and resources are available on faasafety.gov.
151
What is a TRSA, and how is it charted?
A TRSA is just like it sounds: it’s an area in the terminal environment of an airport for radar services. Specifically, it is a charted area in the terminal environment of some Class D airports within which pilots are encouraged to contact the radar approach control to receive radar services. TRSAs are charted with a solid black line and altitudes for each segment.
152
is participation through a TRSA just encouraged? Pilots are not required to contact the radar approach control to operate in this airspace?
Correct, participation is voluntary . . . but encouraged.
153
Why is it a good idea to use TRSA services?
Typically these airports have a lot of IFR and commercial traffic. Using the TRSA allows an approach controller to separate you from other inbound aircraft and sequence you in to land.
154
When SoCal Approach reads back your tail number, are you cleared into the KPSP (Palm Springs TRSA) Class D? Or does Tower separately need to say your tail number?
Establishing communications with Tower is still required - they must say your tail number.
155
At least how many feet are pilots supposed to fly above the surface of a Wilderness Area? is it Mantarory or a request?
2,000 AGL
A strong request.
156
157
is the altitude restriction request true for all Wilderness Areas
No, some have special flight rules associated with them that outright prohibit overflight at certain altitudes.
158
What is the definition of the “surface”?
The highest terrain within 2,000 feet laterally of the route of flight, or the uppermost rim of a canyon or valley.
159
How is a Wilderness Area charted?
Blue line with blue dots on the inside.
160
What altitude restriction is associated with NOAA Marine Areas?
Either 1,000ft AGL or 2,000ft AGL minimum, depending on what the Marine Area warning box says.
161
Is flight below 1,000/2,000 AGL prohibited or advised against in NOAA Marine areas?
162
How are Marine Areas charted?
With a magenta line with magenta dots on the inside.
163
How are Tethered Balloons charted?
Usually these are surrounded by a small circle of Restricted airspace with a caution box nearby containing language like, “CAUTION: UNMARKED BALLOON ON CABLE TO 15,000MSL.”
164
What is a WRA, and how is it charted?
Weather Reconnaissance Area is an area established to support weather reconnaissance/research flights. These are not charted; they are published by NOTAM, so their dimensions, location, active times, and expected activities will be included in the NOTAM.
165
Can non-participating aircraft fly through a WRA?
Weather Reconnaissance Area VFR aircraft should avoid them; IFR aircraft will be rerouted to avoid them.
166
How are sectionals scaled?
1:500,000.
It means the sectional is zoomed out so that for every 1 unit of measurement at the surface, on a sectional that unit is represented as 500,000 times smaller.
167
How are TAC charts scaled?
1:250,000.
168
How often are sectionals updated?
Every 6 months.
169
How are changes to sectionals that occur before the 6-month update disseminated to pilots?
Refer to the Aeronautical Chart Bulletins section of the Chart Supplement. These are updated every 56 days as each new Chart Supplement is released
170
Tell me everything that you can glean from the sectional about KCHD (located SE of KPHX).
It’s blue so it’s towered. The tick marks mean fuel is available (at least 10am - 4pm or self-serve). It’s a circular, filled-in airport diagram symbol, meaning that the longest runway is less than 8,069ft long and it’s hard surface. The airspace surrounding the airport is Class D up to, but not including (due to the negative sign in the “[-39]”), 3,000ft MSL. The star means that the airport has a rotating beacon operating from sunset to sunrise. The airport information just to the right of the airport symbol tells us the following: the airport’s name and identifier; “CT” indicates the control tower frequency: 126.1; the star next to this frequency means part-time; the “C” identifies the CTAF frequency (the “C” FOLLOWS the frequency it refers to, meaning that when the tower closes, 126.1 becomes the CTAF); 133.1 is a second tower frequency and it is also part time; the ATIS is 128.325; field elevation is 1243ft; the “\*L” means that the runway has lights and the pilot should
consult the Chart Supplement to determine limitations (more often than not the “\*” just indicates that the lighting is pilot controlled); the longest runway is 4,900ft; the UNICOM is 122.95; and runways 4R and 22R have right traffic patterns. The pink dots surrounding the airport symbol mean that there’s an NDB located there.
171
Towered airports often have lights that are not pilot-controlled. At these airports, what is the procedure for turning on the lights and/or adjusting their brightness?
Make a request to Tower.
172
Why is the CTAF at KCGZ (located just NE of the TFD VOR) italicized?
Means it’s the UNICOM frequency.
173
What’s a UNICOM?
It’s a frequency pilots can use to coordinate services such as fuel or parking. Sometimes you can get additional weather and airport info on this frequency as well.
174
On top of the KCHD airport symbol, trace how you would takeoff and fly a right traffic pattern for runway 4R.
H
175
Say you are inbound from the south and you call up KCHD Tower and request touch and go’s. Tower responds:
## Footnote
“...overfly the runways midfield and make left traffic runway 4L.” Trace how you would fly this.
s
176
Is a mode-C transponder required to operate in KCHD’s airspace?
Yes. Because KCHD’s airspace is located inside the mode-C veil. Otherwise, a mode-C transponder would not be required in Class D airspace.
177
At the very top of the image, toward the middle, above the V241 MTR, there is a small blue circle with a dot in it. What does this symbol indicate?
A Remote Communications Outlet.
178
What are RCO's for
Recmote communications outlet are unmanned communications facility remotely controlled by Flight Service Stations (FSS), used to extend communication range.
179
How would you file a VFR flight plan?
Same process as for IFR flight plans - i.e. call a briefer on the ground or contact an FSS in the air.
180
If your route does not involve any detours or major turns, what would you file for your “route”?
Direct
181
Say you filed a VFR flight plan before takeoff. You take off out of KCGZ (non-towered airport located just NE of the Stanfield VOR, TFD) and start flying westbound. Take me through how you would pick up your VFR flight plan? Be specific.
The frequency for the relevant FSS is located on top of the TFD NAVAID box, it says 122.1R; the name of the FSS is at the bottom, Prescott Radio. The “R” means that THEY receive on 122.1, so I’ll be receiving on the TFD VOR frequency, 114.8. After selecting 114.8 and activating “NAV1”, I would call up Prescott Radio on 122.1R and tell them that I’m listening on 114.8, give them my time off the ground, and let them know that I would like to pick up my VFR flight plan to \_\_\_\_. They will likely give me some pertinent weather, request PIREPs, and tell me that my flight plan has been opened.
182
How do you close a VFR flight plan originating from a non towered airport?
Call a FSS, either in the air on the radio, or on the ground through 1-800-wx-brief.
183
How much time do you have after your filed ETA to close your flight plan before it is officially overdue?
30 minutes. After this, a communications search begins. This search becomes progressively more involved until search and rescue personnel are dispatched several hours later.
184
Is there a universal FSS frequency pilots can try, even if it’s not depicted on a NAVAID box or with an RCO?
Yes, 122.2.
185
Why does Gila River Memorial Airport (located just west of KCHD) have an “X” through it?
Means it’s abandoned.
186
Pretend you take off from Gila River Memorial Airport in a rocket and fly straight up into space. Take me through all the airspace you’ll pass through. Be specific about the associated altitudes.
Class G up to but not including 700ft AGL \> Class E starting at 700ft AGL up to but not including 6,000ft MSL \> Class B starting at 6,000ft MSL up to and including 9,000ft MSL \> Class E above 9,000ft MSL up to but not including 18,000ft MSL \> Class A from 18,000ft MSL up to and including FL600 \> Class E above FL600.
187
Same rocket scenario except now you’re taking off over Cedar Knoll (private airport located just east of KSFB).
Class G up to but not including 700ft MSL \> Class C from 700ft MSL up to but not including the overlying Class B at 3,000ft MSL \> Class B from 3,000ft MSL up to and including 10,000ft MSL \> Class E above 10,000ft MSL up to Class A starting at 18,000ft MSL, etc.
188
Same figure, same scenario, except now you’re taking off over SOTHERLAND (private airport toward the bottom right of the image).
Class G up to but not including 1,200ft AGL \> Class E from 1,200ft AGL up to but not including 1,300ft MSL \> Class C from 1,300ft MSL up to but not including the overlying Class B at 3,000ft MSL \> Class B from 3,000ft MSL up to and including 10,000ft MSL \> Class E above 10,000ft MSL up to Class A starting at 18,000ft MSL, etc.
189
Every quadrant on a sectional contains one large 2-digit blue number. What are these numbers called, and how are they calculated?
Maximum Elevation Figures (MEFs). If the highest point in the quadrant is terrain, then the MEF is calculated by adding 300ft to the highest terrain point, then rounding that number up to the next hundred-foot level. If the highest point is a man-made structure, then the MEF is calculated by adding 100ft to the elevation of the top of that obstacle, then rounding that number up to the next hundred-foot level.
190
Are MEFs (Maximum Elevation Figures) safe altitudes?
Absolutely not. Operating 300ft above terrain is not safe.
191
Toward the upper-left of the Phoenix sectional image there are two white areas outlined with lines of blue hash marks. What is this?
The Luke Airforce SATR.
192
What are the rules to operate in this SATR, and where do you find them?
The specifics are listed in Part 93. You can also look on FAASafety.gov. Or there’s a blue box next to the SATR that explains the basic rule: pilots must establish and maintain communications with Luke Approach while operating in the SATR area.
193
Alert Area 231 is in the upper left section of the Phoenix sectional image. This region on the sectional is really convoluted with symbology . . . what specific line(s) define the boundaries of this Alert Area?
The line of magenta hash marks; same line style that is used for MOAs.
194
Is the Southeast Practice Area (region east of TFD) an Alert Area?
No, the “Intensive student training . . .” warning box does not make the area an Alert Area.
195
Along the bottom of the chart toward the right is a blue circle with an “H” inside it. What does this represent?
Towered Heliport
196
KTUS (not on the sectional image above) is referred to as an “AOE” on the sectional. What does this stand for and what does it mean?
Airport of Entry. This means that the airport has Customs and therefore can be used as an initial port of entry for inbound international flights.
197
Above KFLG (not on the sectional image) the number “12633” is highlighted in white. What does this indicate?
This is the highest terrain elevation on the sectional.
198
Is a mode C transponder required to operate in KFLG’s airspace?
no
199
Do you need a Mode C Transponder if you were overflying KFLG’s airspace at 10,500ft MSL?
Yes
200
How about if you were overflying the 12633ft peak (Humphreys Peak) at 13,500ft MSL?
No, you’d be less than 2,500ft AGL, so the \>10,000ft MSL mode-C requirement doesn’t apply.
201
At KIWA (located just west of KCHD), there is a small open circle between the runways. What does this represent?
An on-field VOR
202
Why is there no compass rose on this on field VOR at KIWA?
The VOR has no airways associated with it.
203
you are flying VFR right over 13Q, Jewett Mesa Airstrip at an altitude of 9,500ft MSL during the day. What visibility and cloud clearance are required?
The field elevation is 7,681ft. So 9,500ft MSL is more than 1,200ft AGL and less than 10,000ft MSL, and the airspace is Class G. So: 1152.
204
This airport is surrounded by the 1,200ft AGL blue Class E line . . . how do you know that this line applies to the airspace *outside* the enclosed area, not inside?
Both the 1,200ft AGL and 700AGL Class E lines fade IN to their applicable areas.
205
What is the lowest ceiling/visibility that would still allow for a legal VFR takeoff out of KIWA (or any other Class D airport)?
3sm and 1000ft ceiling.
206
Say the METAR at KIWA lists the visibility and ceiling as 2sm 008BKN . We go outside to look at the weather and we can see the Superstition Mountains, so the visibility is clearly MUCH greater than 2sm. Plus, it looks to us like the ceiling has broken up and is more like FEW or SCT. So we get in the plane in order to listen to the ATIS, and it reports 2sm visibility, clouds SCT at 2,000. Can we take off?
No, reported visibility is less than 3sm.
207
What if the ATIS instead reports 4sm visibility and a 2,000ft SCT cloud layer, but the METAR on your iPad still shows 2sm 008BKN. Can we take off now?
Yes, we go by the ATIS info.
208
209
Would you take off VFR out of KIWA if the ATIS reported 3sm visibility, 1000ft OVC? Why or why not?
No, because after t/o we would have to maintain 500ft below the clouds. This would put us 500ft AGL, so 500ft above congested areas. There is also terrain in the vicinity of the airport that would require a higher climb. We also have an LOA that requires us to maintain 3,000ft MSL (1,500ft AGL) enroute to the practice area.
210
Under what specific circumstances does the 3sm/1000ft ceiling takeoff minimum apply?
When departing VFR from an airport that is surrounded by controlled airspace down to the surface.
211
What are your VFR takeoff minimums out KCGZ during the day?
1sm and clear-of-clouds.
212
How do your visibility and cloud clearance requirements change upon reaching 700ft AGL on your climb-out?
At 700ft AGL I would hit Class E airspace, meaning vis and cloud clearance requirements become more restrictive: 3152.
213
I’m an IRA pilot flying an IFR-equipped aircraft. I’ve heard that I don’t need to be on an IFR flight plan to takeoff from a Class G airport into hard IMC, as it’s uncontrolled/unregulated airspace. Is this true?
The NTSB found that 91.155 (the reg that covers basic VFR) does not prohibit an IRA pilot from taking off in an IRA aircraft into IMC while not on an IFR flight plan and in uncontrolled airspace; however, the NTSB went on to rule that it was dangerous and reckless per 91.13 and the pilot had his licence temporarily suspended. In this particular case, there were some aggravating circumstances involved - such as passengers being onboard - but regardless, the answer to whether it’s legal to takeoff in IMC while not on an IFR flight plan is almost certainly no because it violates 91.13.
214
KIWA’s tower closes at midnight and the airport reverts to Class G until 5am. What are your takeoff minimums now?
Basic VFR mins at night in Class G airspace below 1,200ft AGL are 3152. The 1000ft ceiling limitation for VFR takeoffs would no longer apply, because there is no longer controlled airspace descending to the surface; so my visibility minimum would be 3sm and I would have to remain 500ft below clouds. There is a caveat, however, when operating in a Class G traffic pattern at night: if remaining in the pattern and within ½ mile of the runway, only 1sm visibility and staying clear-of-clouds is required. However, at TPA in KIWA’s pattern (approximately 1,200ft AGL), I would be within the Class E airspace that starts at 700ft AGL, therefore the 1sm/clear-of-clouds Class G night caveat would not apply.
215
What are the weather minimums required to land under VFR?
Same as the VFR takeoff mins.
216
If a Class D airport reported an 800ft ceiling and 1/4sm visibility, but the sky was clear above the ceiling, could you transition through the Class D airspace over the clouds at 2000ft AGL under VFR?
Yes, this is more than 1,000ft above the clouds. I just couldn’t operate below the ceiling under VFR.
217
You’re in the practice area returning to KIWA, so you listen to the ATIS and the visibility is reported as 1sm, ceiling 5,000ft OVC. You are not instrument current. You have flown out of KIWA for years and know the area well. Is there a legal way that you can enter KIWA’s Class D airspace and land?
Yes, pick up a special VFR clearance.
218
From who can we pick up an SFVR clearance at KIWA?
From the controlling agency of the airspace in which I’m trying to operate special VFR. In this case, KIWA Tower.
219
Same scenario:You’re in the practice area returning to KIWA, so you listen to the ATIS and the visibility is reported as 1sm, ceiling 5,000ft OVC. You are not instrument current. You have flown out of KIWA for years and know the area well. Is there a legal way that you can enter KIWA’s Class D airspace and land? except now it’s just after sunset. Can you still pick up a special VFR clearance? Why?
No. A pilot must be instrument current in an instrument-equipped aircraft to operate under special VFR from sunset to sunrise. You said I’m not instrument current.
220
What are the weather minimums for a special VFR clearance?
1sm visibility ( reported visibility to takeoff or land; flight visibility to transit) and maintain clear-of-clouds.
221
In what type of airspace is special VFR permitted?
Within 1) controlled airspace that is 2) designated to the surface 3) for an airport.
222
Other than weather being below minimums, when else is special VFR prohibited?
When “NO SVFR” is listed above the airport name on the sectional (this is also stated in the chart supplement).
223
Who can you call to pick up a clearance for special VFR in a Class E surface area surrounding an untowered airport?
Nearest tower, FSS, or Center.
