Understanding airspace is one of the most fundamental, and sometimes confusing aspects of learning how to become a pilot. In this video, from 2022’s 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge, Jason Schappert walks you through how to read a VFR sectional chart and understand the three-dimensional world we fly in.
Using real world examples and a touch of gamification, Jason breaks down what each line, color, and symbol means on your VFR sectional chart so you can visualize airspace with confidence.
Class D, C, and B Airspace Explained
Starting with Class D airspace, Jason highlights Ocala (KOCF) as a great example. The blue dashed lines mark Class D, which extends from the surface up to 1,500 feet. From there, he moves to Class D airspace, shown with a solid magenta line, such as Daytona Beach (KDAB). Class C typically consists of two layers, a surface area and a shelf, extending up to 4,000 feet.
Lastly, he explores Class B airspace, demonstrated by the Tampa and Orlando areas. These are shown with solid blue lines and can extend up to 10,000 feet. Bravo airspace often follows geographic or manmade features like shorelines or highways, giving pilots visual reference points when navigating complex areas.
For more on how the FAA defines each airspace type, review the Airspace Classification Overview in the Aeronautical Information Manual.
Understanding Class E and G Airspace
Many pilots overlook Class E and Class G airspace, but these areas are critical for safe VFR operations. Jason uses Inverness as an example, showing how a faded magenta ring indicates where Class E airspace begins at 700 feet AGL. Outside that ring, Class E begins at 1,200 feet. Beneath both is Class G airspace, which extends from the surface up to where Class E begins.
He also reviews important visibility and cloud clearance requirements:
- Class G (below 1,200 ft): clear of clouds
- Class E: 3 miles visibility, 1,000 ft above, 500 ft below, and 2,000 ft horizontally from clouds.
Play the “Rocket Ship Game” to Master Airspace
Jason introduces a fun learning tool called the Rocket Ship Game. Here’s how it works: pick a random spot on a sectional chart (consider it your “launch pad”), and imagine blasting off like a rocket. As you “climb”, identify each layer of airspace you pass through, from Class G to E, then possibly C,B, or even A.
This exercise helps pilots visualize airspace in three dimensions and builds quick recall skills for their checkrides or real-world flying. Whether you’re a study pilot or CFI, the Rocket Ship Game is a great way to turn chart reading into an engaging, hands-on experience.
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