Which factor determines the lateral dimensions of Class D airspace?

Which factor determines the lateral dimensions of Class D airspace?

• A. The instrument approach procedures for which the controlled airspace is established
• B. The number of runways
• C. The population of the surrounding area
• D. The weather reporting points

Answer: (A)

The lateral size of Class D airspace is set to enclose the airport’s published instrument approach procedures. This means the boundaries are drawn big enough to include the paths, segments, and missed‑approach routes used by IFR traffic as they approach or depart the airport, ensuring those procedures stay within controlled airspace and under ATC. While a typical Class D area might be around a 4 NM radius, the exact size can be adjusted to adequately cover the required approach procedures and obstacle considerations in the terminal area. The number of runways, the surrounding population, or weather reporting points do not determine the lateral boundaries.

The lateral size of Class D airspace is set to enclose the airport’s published instrument approach procedures. This means the boundaries are drawn big enough to include the paths, segments, and missed‑approach routes used by IFR traffic as they approach or depart the airport, ensuring those procedures stay within controlled airspace and under ATC. While a typical Class D area might be around a 4 NM radius, the exact size can be adjusted to adequately cover the required approach procedures and obstacle considerations in the terminal area. The number of runways, the surrounding population, or weather reporting points do not determine the lateral boundaries.