Class A airspace

Definition of Class A Airspace

Class A airspace refers to the airspace that extends from 18,000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL) up to and including Flight Level (FL) 600. This type of airspace encompasses a large portion of the airspace in the United States, including the airspace overlying the waters within 12 nautical miles (NM) of the coast of the 48 contiguous states and Alaska. Additionally, it includes designated international airspace beyond 12 NM of the coast of the 48 contiguous states and Alaska, within areas of domestic radio navigational signal or Air Traffic Control (ATC) radar coverage, and within which domestic procedures are applied.

Class A airspace is controlled airspace, which means that all pilots must contact ATC and obtain clearance before entering this airspace. Aircraft flying within this airspace are required to operate under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and must be equipped with special communication and navigation equipment that meets the standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This type of airspace is typically used by commercial airlines and other high-altitude aircraft that operate at or above 18,000 feet MSL. It offers a high level of safety and allows for efficient traffic flow, especially in crowded airspace.

The FAA has established strict regulations governing the use of Class A airspace to ensure the safety of aircraft operating within it. These regulations include specific altitudes and flight procedures that must be followed by all pilots flying within this airspace.

In summary, Class A airspace is a vital part of the National Airspace System (NAS) in the United States. It provides a safe and efficient means of travel for high-altitude aircraft and helps to ensure the overall safety of the airspace system.