Airspace from the surface to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation surrounding airports with an operational control tower and radar approach control is which class?

• A. Class D
• B. Class C
• C. Class E
• D. Class A

Answer: (B)

Class C airspace surrounds airports that have an operational control tower and radar approach control. It is designed to provide a controlled environment to separate IFR traffic from VFR and to ensure coordinated sequencing of arrivals and departures. The inner portion extends from the surface up to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation within a 5 NM radius, and there is typically an outer shelf from 1,200 feet above the airport elevation up to 4,000 feet above, from 5 to 10 NM. To enter Class C, you must establish two-way radio communication with ATC before entry, and a Mode C transponder is required within this airspace. The description in the question matches the inner core portion of Class C, which is why this is the correct classification.