FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)Navigation and Flight PlanningMedium
A pilot is flying VFR and observes a large, circular area on the sectional chart outlined with a solid blue line and labeled 'CLASS B AIRSPACE'. Within this area, there are additional solid blue lines depicting different layers. What does the solid blue line indicate for this airspace?
- AIt represents a controlled firing area where firing activities are ongoing.
- BIt denotes the lateral boundaries of Class B airspace.
- CIt marks the outer limits of a Military Operations Area (MOA).
- DIt indicates a VFR flyway through the Class B airspace.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. It denotes the lateral boundaries of Class B airspace.
On a sectional chart, solid blue lines are used to depict the lateral boundaries of Class B airspace. These lines, along with associated altitudes, define the complex, inverted wedding cake shape of Class B airspace.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Controlled Firing Areas (CFAs) are not depicted on VFR sectional charts as they are not restricted to aircraft unless an active hazard exists, and they use different symbology when depicted.
- C. MOAs are depicted with magenta dashed lines, not solid blue lines.
- D. VFR flyways are typically depicted with magenta dashed lines or specific textual annotations, not solid blue lines.
Class B Airspace Symbology
Class B airspace boundaries are depicted on sectional charts using solid blue lines, indicating controlled airspace around the nation's busiest airports.
- Solid blue lines define lateral boundaries.
- Altitudes are shown as fractions (e.g., 100/SFC).
- Requires ATC clearance to enter.
Memory trick: Blue is for Big and Busy, like Class B airport traffic.