FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)Airspace and NavigationHard
A pilot is flying below 10,000 feet MSL and approaching an airport located in Class C airspace. At 2,000 feet AGL within 4 nautical miles of the primary airport, what is the maximum indicated airspeed permitted?
- A150 knots
- B250 knots
- C230 knots
- D200 knots
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 200 knots
Under 14 CFR 91.117, aircraft operating within 4 nautical miles of the primary airport of a Class C or Class D airspace, at or below 2,500 feet AGL, are limited to a maximum indicated airspeed of 200 knots. Since this aircraft is at 2,000 feet AGL within 4 NM, the 200-knot limit applies, which is more restrictive than the general 250-knot limit below 10,000 feet MSL.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 150 knots is not a speed limit prescribed by regulation for this scenario.
- B. 250 knots is the general limit below 10,000 MSL, but a more restrictive 200-knot limit applies closer to the primary airport.
- C. 230 knots exceeds the regulatory limit for this specific airspace segment.
Airspace Speed Restrictions (91.117)
14 CFR 91.117 establishes maximum indicated airspeeds in various airspace segments to enhance safety near airports and in busy terminal areas.
- Below 10,000 ft MSL: max 250 KIAS generally
- Within 4 NM and at/below 2,500 ft AGL of Class C/D primary airport: max 200 KIAS
- Below Class B floor or in a VFR corridor through Class B: max 200 KIAS
Memory trick: '250 general, 200 near the gate' — speed drops closer to busy airports.