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Class C surface area radius

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 1 of 21 on Airspace / Classification. ACS element UA.II.A.K1b · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONThe surface area of a typical Class C airspace area has what radius?

  1. ATen nautical miles
  2. BFive nautical miles
  3. CThree nautical miles
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Five nautical miles

  • A — incorrect Ten nautical miles is the radius of the Class C outer circle, which starts at 1,200 feet above the airport elevation, not of the surface area.
  • B — correct The study guide states that Class C airspace usually consists of a surface area with a five nautical mile radius.
  • C — incorrect Three nautical miles is the distance from the coast where warning areas begin; it is not a Class C dimension.

BACKGROUND

Although each Class C area is individually tailored, the study guide gives its usual dimensions. The surface area has a five nautical mile (NM) radius and extends from the surface to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation. An outer circle with a ten NM radius extends from 1,200 feet to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation. These figures are charted in mean sea level (MSL).

STUDY TIP

Remember the two Class C circles as 5 NM (surface) and 10 NM (outer, starting at 1,200 feet above the airport).

KEY POINTS

  • The Class C surface area usually has a five NM radius.
  • The outer circle has a ten NM radius.
  • The outer circle runs from 1,200 to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt Chapter 2 "Class C Airspace"
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MORE ON AIRSPACE / CLASSIFICATION

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.