StudyWhat is the standard Class C airspace configuration?
- ❌A:Single cylinder extending to 4,000 feet AGL
- ✅B:Two-tier cylinder with inner and outer areas
- ❌C:Triangular wedge shape around the airport
Explanations
- A: This is incorrect. Class C airspace is not a single cylinder extending to 4,000 feet AGL. Misunderstanding this could lead to unauthorized airspace incursions, posing safety risks and potential regulatory violations. For commercial drone operators, such violations could lead to fines, damage to business reputation, and loss of client trust.
- B: This is correct. Class C airspace typically has a two-tier configuration with inner and outer areas. Understanding this is crucial for planning safe and compliant drone operations in or near Class C airspace. It helps avoid collisions, regulatory violations, and potential business disruptions.
- C: This is incorrect. Class C airspace is not a triangular wedge shape around the airport. Misunderstanding this could lead to unauthorized airspace incursions, posing safety risks and potential regulatory violations. For commercial drone operators, such mistakes could result in fines, damage to business reputation, and loss of client trust.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding the configuration of Class C airspace is crucial for planning safe and compliant drone operations. Misunderstanding could lead to unauthorized airspace incursions, posing safety risks and potential regulatory violations. For commercial drone operators, such violations could lead to fines, damage to business reputation, and loss of client trust.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Operating in or near Class C airspace without understanding its configuration could lead to collisions with manned aircraft, posing significant safety risks. Additionally, regulatory violations could result in fines and legal issues, impacting your business's profitability and reputation.
Consider This Scenario
Imagine a commercial drone operator hired to inspect a cell tower located near a Class C airport. The operator, misunderstanding the configuration of Class C airspace, flies the drone into the outer area without proper authorization. This results in an airspace incursion, leading to a near-miss with a manned aircraft and subsequent FAA investigation. The operator faces potential fines and damage to their business reputation.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that remote pilots understand the configuration of Class C airspace to prevent unauthorized airspace incursions and ensure safety.
Business Success Strategy
Ensure you and your team fully understand the configuration of Class C airspace. Use 3D visualizations and practice identifying tier boundaries on aeronautical charts. This knowledge will help you plan safe and compliant operations, avoid regulatory violations, and maintain your business's reputation and client trust.
Memory Aid
Remember, Class C airspace is like a two-tier cake, with an inner and outer layer. This mental image can help you recall the correct configuration when planning operations or taking the Part 107 exam.
Enhanced References
Refer to the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) Section 3-2-4 for more information on Class C airspace configuration.
Related Concepts
- Class C airspace design
- Inner and outer area requirements
- Radar service areas
ACS Code: UA.II.A.K1c
Difficulty: basic