FAA Ground School Practice Test

What are the basic VFR weather minimums for operating an aircraft in Class D airspace?

1. 1,000 ft ceiling and 3 miles visibility

2. 500 ft ceiling and 2 miles visibility

3. 2,000 ft ceiling and 1 mile visibility

4. 1,500 ft ceiling and 4 miles visibility

The correct answer is: 1,000 ft ceiling and 3 miles visibility

The basic VFR (Visual Flight Rules) weather minimums for operating an aircraft in Class D airspace require a minimum ceiling of 1,000 feet and visibility of at least 3 statute miles. This requirement ensures that pilots have sufficient visual reference to navigate, avoid obstacles, and maintain separation from other aircraft while flying in controlled airspace. Class D airspace is typically associated with airports that have an operational control tower, and these minimums reflect the need for pilots to maintain visual contact with the ground and other aircraft. The 1,000-foot ceiling allows for a safe altitude above obstacles that may be present in the vicinity of the airspace, while the 3 miles of visibility permits the pilots to have a clear line of sight to see and avoid other traffic. In contrast, other choices reflect different scenarios that do not meet the established VFR weather minimums for Class D airspace. For instance, a lower ceiling or visibility would not provide adequate safety margins for safe flight in the vicinity of an airport, especially where other pilot-controlled maneuvers are necessary.