In which class of airspace do pilots need to be 3 SM visibility and remain clear of clouds?

In Class C airspace, pilots are required to maintain a visibility of 3 statute miles (SM) and stay clear of clouds. This visibility requirement is essential for pilots to ensure they can see and avoid other aircraft, as well as to maintain situational awareness in an environment that may be busy with both VFR (Visual Flight Rules) and IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) traffic.

Class C airspace typically surrounds airports that have a significant amount of air traffic and require specific communication and procedural protocols. The regulations in place help manage that traffic efficiently, preventing collisions and ensuring that all pilots can navigate safely while adhering to these visibility and distance-from-clouds requirements.

In contrast, the other classes of airspace—Class A, B, and D—have different visibility and cloud clearance requirements tailored to the operational needs and traffic levels specific to each class. For instance, Class B requires specific communication with ATC (Air Traffic Control) and usually has higher minimum visibility and distance from clouds to support the heavy traffic that is common around major airports.