Class B
Class Bravo
This topic covers the operating rules, entry requirements, dimensions, and weather requirements in class B airspace. Take notes and use the airspace handout to commit these items to memory. Airspace is one of those topics where memorization is required because you cannot stop to look something up while you are flying.
Lesson Notes
Class Bravo is located around the nation’s busiest airports, including San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Atlanta, Chicago, etc. It has three levels, and is shaped like an upside down wedding cake.
Unlike class C and D it requires a clearance to enter. You can receive a VFR clearance into class B, but you must hear ATC use your callsign and say “cleared”. Usually they will simply say “…cleared into the class Bravo” along with altitude and lateral routing (e.g. 3,000 feet, follow the shoreline). They cannot say “proceed as request”, “approved”, “continue”, etc. as in class C and D. If there is any confusion about your clearance status, say something like “Approach, Cessna 123FA, verify cleared into the class Bravo at 4,000 feet”.
Additional Resources
Flashcard Questions
What are the weather requirements in class B?
What is the mode C veil?
What is the speed limit under a class B?
Is there a speed limit in the class B?
Typically aircraft in a class B are restricted to 250 knots. What rule causes this restriction?
To enter a class B airspace, what must a VFR pilot hear from the controlling facility?