Into Uncontrolled Air

As instrument pilots on IFR clearances, the types and differences of the airspace we fly in dont seem to matter much. But it turns out that there are some nuances that do matter and can cause hassle, hazard or even a certificate action if we ignore them.

Editorial Staff

Wednesday, November 26, 2014 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

IFR pilots must understand the nuanced definitions and boundaries of Class E and G airspace around airports, as they determine legal requirements and safety precautions, especially in marginal weather conditions.
Departing from an airport with Class E airspace extending to the surface (indicated by a magenta dashed line) requires an IFR or Special VFR clearance if weather conditions are below VFR minimums; a VFR departure in such circumstances is illegal.
In Class G (uncontrolled) airspace, IFR aircraft are not separated from VFR traffic by ATC, increasing collision risk in low visibility and requiring IFR pilots to maintain heightened awareness and make timely position reports.

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As instrument pilots on IFR clearances, the types and differences of the airspace we fly in don’t seem to matter much. But it turns out that there are some nuances that do matter and can cause hassle, hazard or even a certificate action if we ignore them.

Unlike under VFR where it’s the airspace of higher control (Classes A through D) that are the issue, it’s classes E and G that can cause problems under IFR. These two airspaces are complex in definition and may exist only part-time. Both of those factors may matter at the beginning or end of your IFR flight.