How far out does the 200kt speed restriction extend from Class C and D airports?

The 200-knot speed restriction in Class C and D airspace is designed to ensure safety and manage traffic effectively. This speed limit extends 4 nautical miles (nm) from the boundaries of Class C and D airspace. The rationale behind this extension is to provide adequate space for aircraft to safely transition to and from these controlled environments while decreasing the risk of potential conflicts with other aircraft operating in the vicinity.

In Class D airspace specifically, the slower speed helps to facilitate safer operations in areas that typically have a higher concentration of traffic, such as near airports. Similarly, in Class C airspace, the restriction helps maintain safe separation between arriving and departing flights, allowing air traffic controllers to manage the airspace more efficiently.

Understanding this restriction is crucial for pilots, as it has direct implications for how they plan their flight approaches or departures, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations and maintaining safety standards established by the FAA.