What is the airspace designation that governs operations at airports with control towers that operate part-time?

Class D airspace is specifically designated for airports that have an operating control tower, even if that operation is only part-time. This type of airspace is important because it establishes a structure for managing air traffic in and around the airport, ensuring safe separation between arriving and departing aircraft as well as those transiting the area.

When an airport has a part-time control tower, the Class D airspace will be in effect only when the tower is operational. Pilots must communicate with the control tower when operating within this airspace during those hours. This helps maintain safety and efficiency in air traffic management by providing pilots with critical instructions and information about the surrounding airspace.

In contrast, Class C and Class E airspaces have different functions and are generally not specific to part-time controlled airports. Class C airspace is used around busy airports with full-time control towers and typically requires two-way radio communication, whereas Class E airspace can exist at various altitudes and does not always require communication with air traffic control. Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace, meaning that there is no air traffic control, which does not apply to airports with control towers, regardless of their operating hours.