FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What factor is essential when conducting operations in Class E airspace?

1. Maintaining VFR at all times

2. Following prescribed altitude limits

3. Ensuring communication with control towers

4. Operating under IFR rules

The correct answer is: Following prescribed altitude limits

The essential factor when conducting operations in Class E airspace is following prescribed altitude limits. Class E airspace comes into play in a variety of situations, primarily to facilitate both IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) and VFR (Visual Flight Rules) operations. Each segment of Class E airspace has specific altitude limits that pilots must adhere to, which are designed to ensure the safe and orderly flow of air traffic. Pilots operating under VFR must maintain certain altitude requirements, and when transitioning between different classes of airspace, awareness of these altitude limits is crucial. Class E airspace can extend from the surface or a designated altitude, and understanding the boundaries helps pilots avoid conflicts with other air traffic and ensure compliance with regulations. While maintaining VFR, communication with control towers, and operating under IFR rules are important aspects of flying, they are not universally essential for all operations in Class E airspace. The primary focus in this context is making sure that altitude limits are respected to maintain the safety and efficiency of aerial navigation.