FAA Ground School Practice Test

What happens to the airspace designation when a control tower within Class D airspace ceases operation for the day?

1. The airspace reverts to Class E or a combination of Class E and G airspace

2. The airspace remains Class D regardless of the tower status

3. The airspace is classified as uncontrolled airspace

4. The airspace changes to Class C

The correct answer is: The airspace reverts to Class E or a combination of Class E and G airspace

When a control tower within Class D airspace ceases operation for the day, the classification of that airspace changes. Specifically, the airspace reverts to Class E or a combination of Class E and G airspace depending on the characteristics of the surrounding area. During the hours when the control tower operates, the airspace is designated as Class D because it has specific operational requirements including communication with the tower. Once the tower is closed, those requirements no longer apply, and the airspace operates under the rules of its underlying airspace classification. In general, Class E airspace could be either controlled airspace that does not require a control tower, or it could be airspace where flight is allowed without specific communication requirements. Class G airspace is uncontrolled, where pilots have the freedom to operate without contacting air traffic control. The designation reverts to the surrounding airspace classification based on what exists in that area, which is typically Class E. Therefore, answer A is correct as it accurately describes the transition of airspace designation following the closure of a control tower within Class D airspace.