Welcome to the L2F (“Learn to Fly”) Newsletter. We’re here to help you in your journey of becoming a pilot!

Last week we kicked off a series on the all-important airspace classifications, and this week we’ll explain a few more for you; and give you the primer on “Ground School”.

Let’s dive in!

Wedding Cake in the Sky? No, it’s “Airspace”!

Airspace classifications form the backbone of aviation safety and order. Understanding these classes is non-negotiable for aspiring pilots, providing a roadmap for safe navigation and ultimately maintains the skies as a secure and open expanse for the aviation community.

The FAA classifies airspace according to altitude and types of operations conducted. Alphabetically, from A to G, airspace is ranked from most to least restrictive. For example, sport pilots may only fly in class E and G airspace without an endorsement (F being special use), and Class A airspace is reserved almost exclusively for long-haul flights between towered airports carrying passengers or cargo.

Last week we covered Class A Airspace, and here is an intro to Class C & D Airspace:

CLASS B: BIG AND BUSY

Moving down from the high-altitude highway of the sky, we come to Class B airspace. Imagine it like a bustling city center where the airspace is like an upside-down wedding cake, with 

layers extending out from a busy airport. This is the hubbub of aviation, where both big commercial planes and smaller aircraft interact. Class B is a busy location, heavily controlled by ATC to manage numerous aircraft entering and exiting. To enter this airspace, you need ATC permission and are required to follow their precise instructions. If you're flying near a major airport, you're likely in Class B airspace. It extends 10,000 feet MSL above busy airports, where larger planes are operated and piloted by private or commercial pilots. However, with endorsements, sport or recreational pilots may fly in this zone.

CLASS C: CALMER SKIES

Descending to the next layer of the sky, we encounter Class C airspace – a bit like a bustling town square for aviation. This airspace type typically encircles mid-sized airports.

It’s a place where communication is critical. Pilots must radio in and chat with ATC to get permission to enter. Unlike Class B, you won't find the towering restrictions here, making it a more accessible zone for general aviation aircraft. So, if you're flying in and out of a mid-sized airport, you're probably in Class C airspace. Like Class B Airspace, Class C is busy enough to pose a risk for less experienced pilots, especially in smaller aircraft. Sport and recreational pilots may only enter with approved permits.

Next week we’ll explore other classes of airspace which you are even more likely to experience as a pilot…

What is the role of ground school, and do I need to complete it to become a licensed pilot?

Ground school is an invaluable resource allowing aspiring pilots to learn the ins and outs of aviation - as the name implies - on the ground. Ground school students will learn about flight controls, aerodynamics, maintenance, and further steps to obtain a pilot’s license. But is it truly a requirement? The answer is: it depends.

If you’re training under Part 61, ground school isn’t a requirement, but for Part 141 it is. We’ll discuss the difference between the two later, but no matter what type of license you’re striving for, ground school is a great idea.

Nowadays, ground school can be taken online, right from the comfort of your home. You can always take a discovery before ground school, and there are many skills that are best learned in-person, but ground school presents more theoretical topics than flight school such as the science of aerodynamics, weather, how a plane functions, and more.

The L2F Newsletter is crafted by seasoned pilots and experienced instructors, all with one common goal: to empower your dream of soaring high.

We're not just sharing information; we're sharing wisdom, insights, and the kind of guidance you can only get from those who are already living the dream you aspire to.

Buckle up, because with L2F, you're never alone on your flight training adventure!

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