CombatBeginner

Flying in MTG

A creature with flying can normally be blocked only by flying or reach creatures.

Why it matters

Flying changes which creatures can legally block an attacker. It does not prevent a flying creature from blocking creatures without flying.

Visual example

Check legal blockers

Attacker
Serra Angel

An attacking creature with flying

Combat
Defender
Giant Spider

A legal blocker because it has reach

  1. 1Serra Angel is declared as an attacker.
  2. 2A creature without flying or reach cannot block it.
  3. 3Giant Spider can block because reach specifically permits it.

Real card example

Serra Angel

An attacking creature with flying

Common mistakes

  • Flying does not make a creature unblockable.
  • A flying creature may block a nonflying attacker normally.

Official rule reference

Comprehensive Rules 702.9 · Current Comprehensive Rules

View official rules