The series finale covers Task E: National Airspace System. This episode is unique — I cover the same task at the Private Pilot, Commercial, and CFI levels side by side, pointing out where the requirements differ. I also demonstrate live ForeFlight route planning from Russellville to Destin, showing how the profile view reveals airspace conflicts, MOA deconfliction, restricted areas, and Class C/B transitions.
ACS Elements at a Glance
Planning a route from Russellville to Destin at 5,500 feet, ForeFlight’s profile view shows we’ll clear Little Rock’s Class C but encounter the Meridian 2 MOA (active 8,000–FL180) and restricted area R2915A near Destin (surface to unlimited). I demonstrate how to long-press on the MOA to find the controlling frequency (Memphis Center, 124.4) and explain the difference between “active” and “cold” restricted areas.
Give thorough answers, not minimum answers. When I ask “what does that MOA mean?” don’t just say “military operating area.” Tell me it’s the Meridian 2 MOA, it’s active from 8,000 to FL180, you’ll be below it at 5,500, and you’ve noted 124.4 for flight following deconfliction. That kind of answer covers the question and demonstrates risk management in one shot.
Private vs. Commercial vs. CFI: The knowledge and skill elements are nearly identical across all three ACS documents. The only addition at the CFI level is K4 — currency of publications. The real difference is that the CFI must demonstrate the ability to teach these concepts, not just know them.
VSL ACE Guide
Every airspace class links directly to its FAR, the PHAK chapter, and the chart user’s guide. The ACE Guide also includes a free FAA WINGS airspace course link on the Task E page.
Get the ACE GuideDecoding the Private Pilot ACS — Full Series
- Part 1: Pilot Qualifications (Task A)
- Part 2: Airworthiness Requirements (Task B)
- Part 3: Weather Information (Task C)
- Part 4: Cross-Country Flight Planning (Task D)
- Part 5: National Airspace System (Task E) ← You are here