CTR (control zone)

Airspace & rules

A control zone is controlled airspace around an aerodrome that extends upwards from the surface. VFR flights need an ATC clearance to enter.

German term: Kontrollzone (CTR)
Abbr.: CTR

CTRs protect arrivals and departures at controlled aerodromes. VFR entry and exit usually follow published routes via reporting points; in Germany, CTRs are class D airspace.

In practice

Prepare the frequency, reporting points and an alternative routing around the CTR in case the clearance is refused.

Related in Altimate Pilot

Moving map & airspace

Related terms

Airspace classes (C, D, E, G)
Compulsory reporting point
Squawk (transponder code)

Official sources

EASA Easy Access Rules – SERA (Reg. (EU) 923/2012)
DFS – AIP Germany (VFR)

Content reviewed: 2026-11

For general information only. Always use official sources, your aircraft's flight manual and current national rules for flight decisions.