US-FAA14 CFR 71.1

Applicability

This regulation tells pilots where to find the official descriptions of controlled airspace in the United States. Rather than printing all airspace boundaries directly in the regulations, the FAA incorporates them by reference through FAA Order JO 7400.11K, which lists all Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas, air traffic service routes, and reporting points.

The current version is effective from September 15, 2025, through September 15, 2026. When airspace boundaries change, the FAA publishes amendments in the Federal Register and periodically updates the Order with a new edition.

In practice, this means you won't find specific airspace dimensions in Part 71 itself. Instead, you'll need to consult current aeronautical charts, the Chart Supplement, or the FAA Order directly (available at www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications) for the legal descriptions of controlled airspace boundaries that apply to your flight planning.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.