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Aviation glossary

Class B Airspace

What is Class B airspace?

FAA handbook figure illustrating Class B airspace

Class B airspace surrounds the nation's busiest airports and generally extends from the surface up to 10,000 feet mean sea level (MSL). Each one is individually tailored, with a surface area and two or more layers that often resemble an upside-down wedding cake. An ATC clearance is required to enter, and pilots must comply with specific equipment and certification requirements. Think of it as the most controlled airspace around major hub airports—you can't enter without permission.

Also known as: Class B, Class Bravo, terminal control area

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