Airspace and Aerodrome Operations
Airspace classes and aerodrome geometry
Airspace in Australia is classified from A to G, with classes C, D, E and G most relevant to recreational pilots. Class C and D are controlled; entry requires a clearance and, for RA-Aus pilots, the appropriate endorsement and radio. Class E is controlled airspace in which VFR aircraft may operate with a clearance, while Class G is uncontrolled and relies on broadcasts and see-and-avoid. Candidates must know the VMC minima and the radio calls expected at non-towered aerodromes: inbound calls, joining calls, and the standard broadcast positions.
Aerodrome knowledge includes the meaning of runway markings, wind indicators, taxiway and holding point markings, and the signals used by marshals. Understand the standard circuit direction, which is left unless published otherwise, and the requirement to conform to the traffic pattern. Know the meaning of a towered versus a non-towered aerodrome, and how to obtain an airways clearance when departing a non-towered field into controlled airspace.
Traps to watch
Questions frequently blur the boundary between Class E and Class G, or assume a clearance is implied by a radio call. It is not. Another trap is circuit direction at an aerodrome with a published right-hand circuit, and the assumption that a wind indicator shows the only usable runway. Watch for questions on the minimum visibility and cloud clearance for a given class, and on the requirement to carry a radio in certain airspace.
Rule of thumb
Before entering any new airspace, confirm three things: the class, the clearance status, and the radio frequency. If any one is unknown, stay out.