Question

Which class of airspace does NOT require an ATC clearance?

a-Class A
b-Class B
c-Class C

Answer 1

The correct answer is option a - Class A; pilots do not need ATC clearance in Class A airspace since they operate under IFR, while both Class B and Class C airspace require ATC clearance.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is option a - Class A. In the United States, Class A airspace is generally from 18,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) up to and including FL600 (60,000 feet MSL), and it requires a pilot to operate under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). Unlike Class A, Class B and Class C airspace are areas around busier airports with more stringent air traffic control (ATC) requirements to prevent collisions between aircraft.

Pilots must obtain ATC clearance before entering Class B airspace, which often has a lower base and is depicted as an inverted wedding cake in shape, indicating different layers of restrictions. Similarly, Class C airspace typically encompasses the areas around airports that are less busy than those surrounded by Class B but still have a considerable amount of traffic, and ATC clearance is also required for entry.