Airspace
Students explore airspace classification and the specific rules governing drone operations in different environments. Through hands-on Hopper simulations and real-world research, they define key aviation terms and examine the regulations required for safe flight.
What Students Learn
Students explore the division of airspace into categories and define key terms like controlled and uncontrolled airspace to support safe aviation. Through Hopper drone simulations and real-world research, they examine the specific rules, altitude ranges, and operational requirements that define Class A–G airspaces. The lesson emphasizes the difference between Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), providing essential knowledge for the FAA Part 107 certification exam.
What Students Do
Students use an interstate driving analogy to conceptualize airspace organization before performing two drone simulations that mimic the restrictions of Class B and Class D environments. After the flight activities, they use digital tools to redesign the FAA Airspace Guidance graphic and research a live airport using flight-tracking software. To conclude, students present their findings to the class and complete five practice questions modeled after the official FAA Part 107 exam.
