FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)RegulationsHard
A private pilot is flying under VFR conditions in Class G airspace at 5,000 feet MSL during the day. The flight is over flat terrain where the base of the airspace is at the surface. What is the maximum indicated airspeed permitted for this flight?
- A250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS).
- B200 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS).
- C156 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS).
- DNo specific speed limit applies in Class G airspace, as long as it's safe.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS).
While there are specific speed limits in certain areas (e.g., 250 knots below 10,000 feet MSL, 200 knots below Class B, or within 4 NM of Class C/D primary airport), the general speed limit below 10,000 feet MSL is 250 knots. Class G airspace itself does not impose a specific speed limit lower than the general 250 KIAS below 10,000 feet MSL, unless within 4 NM of a Class C or D primary airport, which is not stated here.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 200 KIAS is the speed limit in Class B airspace, or under Class B, or within 4 NM of a Class C or D primary airport, below 2,500 feet AGL. This scenario is 5,000 MSL in Class G.
- C. This speed (156 KIAS) is not a standard regulatory speed limit for this scenario.
- D. There is a general speed limit below 10,000 feet MSL (250 KIAS) that applies to all airspace, including Class G, unless otherwise specified.
General Speed Limit Below 10,000 MSL
Unless otherwise authorized or restricted, no person may operate an aircraft below 10,000 feet MSL at an indicated airspeed of more than 250 knots.
- Altitude: Below 10,000 feet MSL.
- Speed Limit: 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS).
- Applies: To all airspace classes unless more restrictive limits apply (e.g., Class B, C, D).
- Purpose: Safety and collision avoidance in busier air traffic areas.
Memory trick: Speed Limits: 250 Below 10k, 200 Near Airports.