FlyingJ
Pre-takeoff checklist
A fellow pilot and I disagree on the status of Class G airspace at our local airport (KFHU).
I have attached a screenshot of the sectional (airspace is complex but actually easy to fly in/out).
It is a joint use airport (Libby AAF & Sierra Vista Municipal). During the week (M-F) it is Class D while the tower is open. There are Class E extensions to the surface for approaches and an overlying Class E at 700' AGL. Restricted areas are active.
On weekends and holidays, it is Class G. Restricted Areas are inactive (except R-2312 to the south).
My friend insists (because someone else said the FAA told them) the airport surface changes from Class G to Class E when the airport is IFR (and tower is closed - e.g., Sat & Sun). I have found nothing in FARs, AIM, or a google search to support this statement. Neither can he but maintains it is true.
The A/FD states: AIRSPACE: CLASS D svc 0700Z Mon–0600Z Fri exc holidays other times CLASS G
There is a note in AIM 3-2-6 e(2) that states: If a part–time Class C, Class D, or Class E surface area becomes Class G airspace, the arrival extensions will change to Class G at the same time.
My view is that the surface area remains Class G and, although not necessarily advisable, it is legal when flying VFR to approach and land as long as Class G minimum visibility & cloud clearance requirements are met and altitude is below overlying Class E (e.g., ceiling 800, visibility 2 miles, altitude 500 AGL).
Anyone know of a rule or regulation that would change airport airspace from Class G to Class E under IFR conditions? Supporting or dissenting opinions?
I have attached a screenshot of the sectional (airspace is complex but actually easy to fly in/out).
It is a joint use airport (Libby AAF & Sierra Vista Municipal). During the week (M-F) it is Class D while the tower is open. There are Class E extensions to the surface for approaches and an overlying Class E at 700' AGL. Restricted areas are active.
On weekends and holidays, it is Class G. Restricted Areas are inactive (except R-2312 to the south).
My friend insists (because someone else said the FAA told them) the airport surface changes from Class G to Class E when the airport is IFR (and tower is closed - e.g., Sat & Sun). I have found nothing in FARs, AIM, or a google search to support this statement. Neither can he but maintains it is true.
The A/FD states: AIRSPACE: CLASS D svc 0700Z Mon–0600Z Fri exc holidays other times CLASS G
There is a note in AIM 3-2-6 e(2) that states: If a part–time Class C, Class D, or Class E surface area becomes Class G airspace, the arrival extensions will change to Class G at the same time.
My view is that the surface area remains Class G and, although not necessarily advisable, it is legal when flying VFR to approach and land as long as Class G minimum visibility & cloud clearance requirements are met and altitude is below overlying Class E (e.g., ceiling 800, visibility 2 miles, altitude 500 AGL).
Anyone know of a rule or regulation that would change airport airspace from Class G to Class E under IFR conditions? Supporting or dissenting opinions?