Which statement is true about Class E ATC clearance?

• A. ATC clearance is always required
• B. ATC clearance is required only if IFR
• C. ATC clearance is never required
• D. ATC clearance depends on altitude

Answer: (B)

In Class E, ATC clearance depends on your flight rules, not on altitude. IFR flights must have ATC clearance to operate in this controlled airspace, because they rely on ATC for separation and routing. VFR flights, on the other hand, can enter Class E without a formal ATC clearance, as long as they stay within VFR weather minimums and follow any ATC instructions if issued. So the true statement is that ATC clearance is required only if you’re flying IFR.