Private Pilot Private Exam

The lateral dimensions of Class D airspace are established based on what criteria?

1. The geographical boundaries of the airport

2. The instrument procedures for which the controlled airspace is established

3. The average traffic volume in the area

4. The type of aircraft operations in the airspace

The correct answer is: The instrument procedures for which the controlled airspace is established

The correct answer is based on the fact that Class D airspace is specifically established to support instrument procedures for aircraft that are operating around an airport with an air traffic control tower. This controlled airspace extends around the airport and is designed to ensure safe and efficient operations for the instrument approaches and departures that are facilitated by the tower. The dimensions of Class D airspace are directly influenced by the procedures that pilots must follow when navigating in and out of the airport, especially under instrument flight rules (IFR). The lateral boundaries are drawn to protect the airspace used for these procedures, ensuring that aircraft can safely navigate without interference from other traffic or obstructions. In contrast, while the geographical boundaries of an airport may play a role in determining the broader area of control, the precise lateral dimensions of the airspace are fundamentally tied to the instrument procedures the air traffic control tower is tasked with managing. Traffic volume and the types of aircraft operations may impact airspace management, but they do not directly dictate the establishment of the lateral dimensions of Class D airspace.