What characterizes Class C airspace?

Class C airspace is characterized as controlled airspace that extends from the surface up to 4,000 feet above the airport elevation (MSL) surrounding airports with a significant amount of traffic. This airspace includes an inner core of airspace that generally extends from the surface to 4,000 feet AGL and typically has a radius of about 5 nautical miles, along with an outer shelf that extends from 1,200 feet to 4,000 feet AGL, reaching out to a radius of about 10 nautical miles. The purpose of Class C airspace is to contain traffic around busy airports, ensuring safety and managing the flow of aircraft.

This designation allows for better traffic management and is critical for allowing commercial, general aviation, and other aircraft to operate safely in areas with higher traffic density. It requires pilots to establish two-way radio communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) before entering, maintaining that communication while operating within the airspace.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe Class C airspace as it is defined in the Federal Aviation Regulations. The first option suggests a different vertical limit and purpose, while the third and fourth options describe different classifications of airspace entirely, such as Class E and uncontrolled airspace