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National Airspace System


[Figure 15-1]

The two categories of airspace are: regulatory and nonregulatory. Within these two categories, there are four types: controlled, uncontrolled, special use, and other airspace. The categories and types of airspace are dictated by the complexity or density of aircraft movements, nature of the operations conducted within the airspace, the level of safety required, and national and public interest. Figure 15-1 presents a profile view of the dimensions of various classes of airspace. Also, there are excerpts from sectional charts that are discussed in Chapter 16, Navigation, that are used to illustrate how airspace is depicted.


Objective


To determine that the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with the National Airspace System (NAS) operating under VFR as a private pilot.


Knowledge


The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • Types of airspace/airspace classes and associated requirements and limitations.

  • Charting symbology.

  • Special use airspace (SUA), special flight rules areas (SFRA), temporary flight restrictions (TFR), and other airspace areas.


Risk Management


The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:

  • Various classes and types of airspace.


Skills


The applicant demonstrates the ability to:

  • Identify and comply with the requirements for basic VFR weather minimums and flying in particular classes of airspace.

  • Correctly identify airspace and operate in accordance with associated communication and equipment requirements.

  • Identify the requirements for operating in SUA or within a TFR. Identify and comply with SATR and SFRA operations, if applicable.


References


  • 14 CFR parts 71, 91, 93

  • FAA-H-8083-2

  • Navigation Charts

  • AIM


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This website is in the very early stages of development at the moment. While I'm currently working on pulling information from the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge my next goal will be to process information from all the documents referenced in the private pilot’s Airman Certification Standards. So, please come back as I'll regularly be providing you with more and more information.

Airplane low wing against sky small - banner scratchy with clouds- by Paul Gilmore on stoc
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