Airspace classes for drone pilots
Updated 2026-10-16. Independent guide, not affiliated with the FAA.
Under 14 CFR 107.41, a remote pilot needs ATC authorization (normally through LAANC or FAA DroneZone) before flying in Class B, C or D airspace, or within the lateral boundaries of the surface area of Class E airspace designated for an airport. Class G needs no authorization.
| Class | Chart symbol | Authorization at 300 ft AGL? |
|---|---|---|
| B | Solid blue, floor/ceiling MSL | Yes if within the surface area or above a shelf floor |
| C | Solid magenta | Yes in the surface area; shelves start at a floor (often 1,200 ft MSL+) |
| D | Dashed blue, [ceiling] | Yes |
| E surface | Dashed magenta | Yes |
| E at 700 AGL | Magenta shading | No (Class G below 700 AGL) |
| E at 1,200 AGL | Blue shading / default | No (Class G below) |
| G | Not outlined | No |
Traps the test uses
- Class C and B shelves: if the floor is 1,200 ft MSL and you are at 500 ft MSL, you are below it.
- Part-time towers: when the tower closes, Class D usually reverts to Class E (still authorization) or Class G; check the Chart Supplement.
- Dashed magenta (Class E to the surface) needs authorization even with no tower. This is exactly the FAA's Millville sample question.
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- Do I need authorization in Class E airspace?
- Only within the surface area of Class E designated for an airport (dashed magenta). Class E that starts at 700 or 1,200 ft AGL is above where you fly.
- Is Class G airspace a free-for-all?
- No. All Part 107 rules still apply: 400 ft AGL, VLOS, weather minimums, right of way.
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