What is meant by cloud clearance in Class C and D airspace for VFR?

• A. 500 ft below, 1000 ft above, 2000 ft horizontal from clouds.
• B. 1000 ft below, 500 ft above, 2000 ft horizontal.
• C. 1000 ft below, 1000 ft above, 3000 ft horizontal.
• D. 2000 ft below, 1000 ft above, 1000 ft horizontal.

Answer: (A)

In VFR operations inside Class C and D airspace, cloud clearance is about how far you must stay from any cloud. The required distances are 500 feet below the cloud, 1000 feet above the cloud, and 2000 feet horizontally from the cloud. This spacing gives you enough time and visual reference to see and avoid other aircraft while you’re in controlled airspace around busy towers and approach paths. Along with a minimum visibility of 3 statute miles, these clearances help ensure safe separation from cloud formations and other traffic.

Other sets of numbers don’t match the standard requirements: for example, mixing up the vertical distances (such as 1000 feet below and 500 feet above) or changing the horizontal distance (like 3000 or 1000 feet) would not align with the established VFR minimums for Class C and D airspace.