ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Airspace class

Airspace class is like a giant imaginary bubble around an airport that helps airplanes know where they can fly and what rules they have to follow.

Imagine you're playing with balloons with your friends. There are different types of balloons in different colors, but you have to keep them in their own colored area. The red balloon can stay in the red area, and the blue balloon can stay in the blue area.

In a similar way, airplanes have to stay in their own "balloon" or airspace class. There are different types of airspace classes, but they are all designed to keep planes safe and avoid accidents.

The airspace class closest to the ground is Class G. It's the most flexible airspace and is found everywhere except near big airports. Planes can fly anywhere, but they need to watch out for other planes and stay below a certain altitude.

Next up is Class E airspace, which covers most of the country. Planes can fly higher in this area and have to follow certain rules. They also need to have equipment that helps them see other planes.

Class D airspace is found around smaller airports. Pilots need permission from the tower to enter this area, and they must follow specific instructions from the air traffic controllers.

Then we have Class C airspace, which is usually around bigger airports. Planes need permission to enter this area, and they have to follow strict instructions and use special equipment to communicate with the air traffic controllers.

Finally, the most restrictive airspace is Class A airspace. It's found only at very high altitudes or over the busiest airports, and planes must follow strict rules and use special equipment to fly in this area.

Overall, airspace class helps keep airplanes organized and safe by making sure each plane stays in its own "balloon" and follows specific rules.