Identifying Class D Airspace on Sectional Charts
Class D (Delta) airspace is easy to spot on a sectional chart. It is represented by a blue dashed circle surrounding an airport. This type of airspace is established around airports with an operational control tower, but it’s less restrictive than Class B or Class C airspace.
Entry Requirements and Airspeed Limitations
Before entering class D airspace, you must establish two-way radio communication with ATC. This means ATC must respond with your call sign before you enter, simply calling them isn’t enough.
Here is an example:
“Georgetown Tower, Cirrus 514 Papa Romeo is 12 miles southeast inbound for landing, full stop.”
“514 Papa Romeo, squawk 0610.”
In addition, when flying within 4 nautical miles of the primary airport and at or below 2,500 feet AGL, you cannot exceed 200 knots unless otherwise instructed by ATC. While this limit rarely affects general aviation aircraft, it’s an important regulation to know.
Part-Time Tower Operations and Airspace Changes
Not all Class D towers operate 24/7. When a tower is closed, the airspace may revert to Class E to the surface or Class G depending on the airport.
- Class E reversion: Controlled airspace continues to the surface, and IFR traffic remains under ATC control.
- Class G reversion: Airspace becomes uncontrolled up to the overlying controlled airspace, and pilots must be extra vigilant for other traffic.
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