Class E airspace

Class E airspace is controlled airspace that exists in several configurations. Most of the country above 14,500 feet MSL (up to but not including 18,000 feet MSL) is Class E, as is airspace above FL600. Class E also includes:

• Airspace surrounding airports with instrument approaches, typically starting at 700 feet AGL (shown as magenta shading on charts) or 1,200 feet AGL (shown as blue shading)
• Federal airways, which extend from 1,200 feet AGL upward
• En route and offshore areas where ATC provides services

The key practical point: Class E is controlled airspace where IFR operations require ATC clearance, but VFR pilots need only meet basic weather minimums (typically 3 miles visibility and cloud clearances) without needing ATC permission. If you're not in Class A, B, C, D, or special use airspace, you're likely in Class E—or Class G below it.

*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.*