AVIATION PHOTO TIPS
1. Correcting for wind in a holding pattern is essential to stay on course. Here’s a simple
rule to remember:
The outbound correction angle should be three times the inbound correction angle. For
example, if you need a 5° correction on the inbound leg, apply a 15° correction on the
outbound leg.
This method helps keep you inside the holding pattern's protected area, even in windy
conditions.
2. In a steep turn, the outer wing travels faster and generates more lift, while the inner wing
travels a shorter distance with less lift. This imbalance can cause the airplane to roll into
an even steeper bank, known as an overbanking tendency.
False (but with an important caveat!). Pressure altitude is the altitude above the standard 29.92
inHg pressure level. Density altitude, on the other hand, is pressure altitude adjusted for non-
standard temperatures. While they can match under standard conditions, they usually differ,
impacting your aircraft’s performance.
What is the standard holding pattern direction?
Answer: It’s to the right! If ATC doesn’t specify a direction, they expect you to make right-hand
turns. Pilots, how often do you have to perform non-standard (left-hand) holds?
If the altimeter setting decreases, your indicated altitude will also decrease.
To maintain your assigned altitude, you'll need to climb to return to 6,500 feet.
Class A airspace is reserved for IFR-only flights, stretching from 18,000 feet MSL to FL600. To
enter, you must be on an IFR flight plan, with ATC separation provided at all times.
And here’s a bonus: there are no VFR weather minimums to remember—something student
pilots preparing for the practical test can be thankful for!
Class B airspace covers the busiest airports in the country, typically stretching up to 10,000 feet
MSL. To enter, VFR pilots need explicit clearance: “Cleared into the Bravo.” If you don’t hear
those words, you don’t have permission to enter!
Mode C transponder and ADS-B Out are also required within 30 miles. Many VFR pilots get
nervous in this crowded airspace—but communicate clearly and stay sharp, and you'll be fine.
Class C airspace surrounds mid-sized airports and extends up to 4,000 feet AGL. Two-way radio
communication is required before entering, and ATC provides radar services to separate IFR and
VFR traffic—a key difference from Class D.
Class D airspace surrounds smaller towered airports up to 2,500 feet AGL. Two-way radio
communication is required, but unlike Class C, VFR separation isn’t provided. Class D can
sometimes extend upward into overlying Class C or B airspace—so be aware of vertical
boundaries. Many pilots overlook this, but it’s key for staying clear of conflicting airspace.
Many pilots struggle to remember the differences between Class E and Class G airspace, but
understanding them is critical.
Class E: Controlled airspace starting as low as the surface, 700, or 1,200 feet AGL, and
extending up to 18,000 feet. Though VFR communication isn’t required, IFR separation is still
provided, so keep an eye out for traffic.
Class G: Uncontrolled airspace from the surface up to 700 or 1,200 feet AGL. There’s no ATC
separation or communication here, which means it’s all on you—situational awareness is key to
staying safe.
