UK Airspace and Navigation Flashcards
6 cards from real A2 COFC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 UK Airspace and Navigation flashcards as text
What class of airspace is typically found around major UK airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick?
Answer: Class A
Major UK airports like Heathrow and Gatwick are located within Class A controlled airspace, which is the most restrictive. No VFR flight is permitted, and all traffic requires ATC clearance.
What is the significance of a Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) for drone operators in the UK?
Answer: It extends to 5 km from an aerodrome where drone flights are prohibited without ATC permission
A Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) is established around protected aerodromes. Drone flights within the FRZ are prohibited unless the operator has permission from the relevant air traffic control unit and follows specific conditions.
Which tool should a UK drone pilot use to check for airspace restrictions before flying?
Answer: The NATS Drone Assist app or CAA's online airspace map
The NATS Drone Assist app and the CAA's online drone airspace tools provide real-time information on airspace restrictions, NOTAMs, and restricted areas specifically designed for drone operators.
What does a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) relevant to drone operations typically communicate?
Answer: Temporary changes to airspace or warnings about specific aviation hazards
NOTAMs communicate temporary restrictions, hazards, or changes to airspace that may affect flight operations. Drone pilots must check NOTAMs before every flight as they may include temporary drone restrictions.
In UK Class G (uncontrolled) airspace, what is the maximum height a drone may be flown in the Open category?
Answer: 120 metres AGL
Even in Class G uncontrolled airspace, drones in the Open category are limited to 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level. Being uncontrolled does not mean unrestricted for drone operations.
What is a Temporary Danger Area (TDA) and how does it affect drone pilots?
Answer: A temporarily established area where activities dangerous to aircraft are occurring, requiring drone pilots to avoid or obtain clearance
A TDA is a temporarily notified area of airspace where hazardous activities (such as military exercises or major events) are taking place. Drone pilots must check NOTAMs for active TDAs and avoid flying within them unless authorised.