This document outlines the requirements for operating an aircraft in different classes of airspace, including pilot certification requirements, equipment requirements, and visibility and cloud clearance minimums for visual flight rules (VFR) operations. Class A airspace requires an instrument rating and Class B requires two-way radio communication and a transponder. Class C requires two-way radio communication and a transponder prior to entry. Class D requires two-way radio communication prior to entry. There are no specific requirements for Class E or G airspace under VFR. The document also specifies visibility and cloud clearance requirements for different altitudes in each class of airspace.

1. Class A ATC Clearance IFR Equipped Instrument Rating
Class B ATC Clearance Two-Way Radio, Transponder Private – except a student, sport, or
with Altitude Reporting Capability recreational pilot if regulatory
requirements are met.
Class C Two-Way Radio Communications Two-Way Radio, Transponder No Specific Requirement
Prior to Entry with Altitude Reporting Capability
Class D Two-Way Radio Communications Two-Way Radio No Specific Requirement
Prior to Entry
Class E None for VFR No Specific Requirement No Specific Requirement
Class G None No Specific Requirement No Specific Requirement
Airspace Entry Requirements Equipment Minimum Pilot Certificate
Class A No VFR No VFR
Class B 3 statute miles Clear of clouds
Class C 3 statute miles 500 feet below
1,000 feet above
2,000 feet horizontal
Class D 3 statute miles 500 feet below
1,000 feet above
2,000 feet horizontal
Class E
Less than 10,000 feet msl 3 statute miles 500 feet below
1,000 feet above
2,000 feet horizontal
At or above 10,000 feet msl 5 statute miles 1,000 feet below
1,000 feet above
1 statute mile horizontal
Class G
1,200 feet above the surface or less
(regardless of msl alt.)
Day, except as provided in section 91.155(b). 1 statute mile Clear of clouds
Night, except as provided in section 91.155(b). 3 statute miles 500 feet below
1,000 feet above
2,000 feet horizontal
More than 1,200 feet above the surface
but less than 10,000 feet msl
Day 1 statute mile 500 feet below
1,000 feet above
2,000 feet horizontal
Night 3 statute miles 500 feet below
1,000 feet above
2,000 feet horizontal
More than 1,200 feet above the surface 5 statute miles 1,000 feet below
and at or above 10,000 feet msl 1,000 feet above
1 statute mile horizontal
Airspace Visibility Cloud Clearance
BASIC VFR WEATHER MINIMUMS