FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)Navigation and Flight PlanningMedium
A pilot is flying a VFR cross-country flight and observes a large, irregularly shaped area on the sectional chart outlined with a dashed blue line. This area extends from the surface up to 4,000 feet AGL. What class of airspace does this symbol typically represent, and what are the entry requirements?
- AClass D airspace; requires two-way radio communication to enter.
- BClass E airspace (surface area); requires two-way radio communication to enter.
- CClass B airspace; requires ATC clearance to enter.
- DClass C airspace; requires two-way radio communication to enter.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Class E airspace (surface area); requires two-way radio communication to enter.
A dashed blue line on a sectional chart indicates Class E airspace designated for an airport, extending from the surface up to a specified altitude. Entry into a Class E surface area when it is active requires two-way radio communication with the controlling agency, similar to Class D airspace, to ensure separation from IFR traffic.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Class D airspace is depicted by dashed blue lines, but typically extends from the surface to 2,500 feet AGL and is associated with an operating control tower.
- C. Class B airspace is depicted by solid blue lines and has specific entry requirements.
- D. Class C airspace is depicted by solid magenta lines and has specific entry requirements.
Class E Airspace (Surface Area)
Class E airspace designated to the surface around an airport, typically to protect instrument approach and departure paths, requiring two-way radio communication for entry.
- Depicted by a dashed blue line on sectional charts.
- Extends from the surface up to a specified altitude (e.g., 4,000 feet AGL).
- Requires two-way radio communication with ATC for entry when active.
Memory trick: Dashed Blue for E-xtended, Dashed Magenta for D-efault