AIM ¶ 3-3-1 — Class G Airspace
AIM 3-3-1 explains Class G (uncontrolled) airspace. Study this topic for your written test, oral exam, and checkrole with GroundScholar.
In Plain English
Class G airspace is the only uncontrolled airspace in the U.S. system. The FAA defines it by exclusion: if a chunk of airspace hasn't been designated as Class A, B, C, D, or E, then it's Class G by default.
Why it matters operationally:
- No ATC service is provided to IFR or VFR aircraft in Class G — pilots are responsible for their own separation and traffic avoidance.
- Class G typically exists close to the surface in remote areas, beneath the floor of overlying Class E airspace.
- Even though it's uncontrolled, you still must comply with applicable FARs, including VFR weather minimums and minimum safe altitudes.
For checkride prep, remember that the five controlled classes (A–E) are positively defined with charted boundaries, while Class G is simply whatever is left over. Knowing this distinction helps you read sectional charts and understand where ATC services begin and end.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 3-3-13-3-1. 3-3-1. General
Class G airspace (uncontrolled) is that portion of airspace that has not been designated as Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, or Class E airspace.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What is Class G airspace?
Per AIM 3-3-1, Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace — that portion of airspace that has not been designated as Class A, B, C, D, or E airspace.
Q2Is Class G airspace considered controlled or uncontrolled?
Per AIM 3-3-1, Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace.
Q3How is Class G airspace defined relative to the other airspace classes?
Per AIM 3-3-1, Class G is defined by exclusion: it is any airspace that has not been designated as Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, or Class E.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 3