Add Class E Surface Area to Garmin GPS

<p>The object of this petition is to present to Garmin Ltd. and Jeppessen&nbsp;the need for Class E surface area to be depicted on&nbsp;aircraft&nbsp;handheld and panel mounted GPS units.</p><p>It is difficult for pilots to determine the exact location of the&nbsp;boundaries of Class E airspace that extends from the surface upwards using only&nbsp;a Garmin GPS unit or a Garmin GPS unit accompanied by a paper sectional or non-georeferenced form of electronic sectional.</p><p>Operations that are conducted during times of low visibility, low ceilings,&nbsp;or inclimate weather conditions can lead to&nbsp;serious problems when transitioning airspace boundaries when basic VFR weather minimums change and airspace boundaries are unknown on the pilot's navigation device.</p><p>Being controlled airspace, Class E airspace is prone to more IFR&nbsp;traffic, especially during times of reduced visibility. This creates a safety hazard for all traffic operating under both VFR and IFR.</p><p>While flying&nbsp;within the Basic VFR Weather Minimums&nbsp;regulations set forth by 14 CFR Part 91.155 and the Special VFR Weather Minimums set forth by 14 CFR Part 91.157, it is legal for a pilot to operate in Class E airspace during times of reduced visibility and ceilings&nbsp;with a Special VFR clearance. If that airspace boundary is unknown it is much more difficult for the pilot to know when to contact the controlling agency to request the required clearance.</p><p>Adding the Class E airspace surface area to Garmin GPS units would improve safety as well as help pilots avoid violations by giving them the information needed to&nbsp;know&nbsp;where the airspace boundaries are in real time.</p>