The Flight Environment:

Introduction

When pilots talk about "the flight environment" they're referring to the airports they operate from and the airspace through which they fly.This section of the Ground School explains the basics of operating on and around airports and introduces some important "rules of the road."

The Airport Environment

Most people think of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York or Heathrow (LHR) in London when they think of airports. But the vast majority of airports throughout the world are small, single strips of pavement or grass that serve general aviation. For example, in the U.S. approximately 14,000 airports appear in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) listings but fewer than 700 have control towers. The same ratio is true in Canada. To operate safely and efficiently at an airport, pilots follow a strict set of rules and procedures. A standard set of markings, signs, and lights, much like those used on highways, also helps keep traffic moving safely, even if there's no control tower directing traffic.

Types of Airports

Airports are divided into two basic categories:

1. A controlled airport has an operating control tower. Controllers manage the sequence of traffic and issue clearances to take off and land. Airports with operating control towers are usually located within Class B, Class C, or Class D airspace.
2. An uncontrolled airport doesn't have an operating tower. Pilots follow specific regulations and procedures and fly a designated traffic pattern to maintain a safe, orderly flow of traffic. Uncontrolled airports are usually located in Class G airspace. Keep in mind that an airport with a tower is controlled only when the tower is operating. Many airports have part-time control towers that shut down at night. The airport usually remains open, but when the tower is closed, the airport is an uncontrolled airport.