FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)RegulationsMedium

A private pilot is planning a VFR flight. What is the maximum indicated airspeed permitted below 10,000 feet MSL within Class B airspace?

  1. A230 knots
  2. B150 knots
  3. C200 knots
  4. D250 knots
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. 250 knots

The maximum indicated airspeed permitted below 10,000 feet MSL within Class B airspace is 250 knots. This is a general speed limit that applies to all airspace below 10,000 feet MSL.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. 230 knots is not a standard speed limit in these contexts.
  • B. 150 knots is the speed limit when operating below 2,500 feet AGL and within 4 nautical miles of the primary airport of a Class C or Class D airspace.
  • C. 200 knots is the speed limit within a Class B or Class C airspace when operating beneath the shelf or within a VFR corridor through Class B airspace.

Speed Limit Below 10,000 MSL

No person may operate an aircraft at an indicated airspeed of more than 250 knots (288 mph) below 10,000 feet MSL.

  • This is a general rule that applies to all airspace below 10,000 feet MSL.
  • Specific airspace (e.g., Class B/C beneath shelf) may have lower speed limits.
  • This limit helps manage traffic density and reaction time.

Memory trick: Ten thousand feet, two-fifty is sweet, any higher, faster you meet!

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