For Class C airspace, which of the following describes the standard VFR minimums?

• A. 3 statute miles visibility, 1,000 feet below, 2,000 feet above, 2,000 feet horizontal
• B. 3 statute miles visibility, 500 feet below, 1,000 feet above, 2,000 feet horizontal
• C. 5 statute miles visibility, 1,000 feet below, 1,000 feet above, 2,000 feet horizontal
• D. 3 statute miles visibility, 1,000 feet below, 2,000 feet above, 2,000 feet horizontal

Answer: (B)

In Class C airspace, the standard VFR minimums are 3 statute miles of visibility with cloud clearance of 1,000 feet above, 500 feet below, and 2,000 feet horizontally. This setup provides enough visibility to see other traffic and stay clear of clouds while you’re operating around busy approach control areas.

Why this fits the scenario: 3 SM visibility is the established standard for most controlled airspace that isn’t class B, and the vertical numbers — 1,000 feet above, 500 feet below — with 2,000 feet horizontal — keep you separated from clouds in a way that supports safe VFR flight near airports with radar and ATC services.

The other patterns don’t match these standard minimums: some require 5 miles visibility, which is more restrictive than necessary; others swap or misplace the vertical distances (for example, 1,000 feet below or 2,000 feet above) and don’t reflect the Class C standard.