FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)Navigation and AirspaceEasy
A helicopter pilot plans to transition through Class B airspace surrounding a major airport. What must the pilot obtain from ATC before entering that airspace?
- AA special VFR clearance regardless of weather conditions
- BTraffic advisories only, since Class B is advisory airspace
- CAn explicit ATC clearance to enter the Class B airspace
- DConfirmation that the ceiling is at least 1,000 feet AGL
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. An explicit ATC clearance to enter the Class B airspace
14 CFR 91.131 requires an explicit ATC clearance ('cleared into Class Bravo') before entering Class B airspace, in addition to meeting equipment and pilot certification requirements.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Special VFR clearances apply to Class B, C, D, and E surface areas under IFR-like weather, not routine Class B transit.
- B. Class B requires a clearance, not merely advisories.
- D. There is no fixed ceiling requirement tied to Class B entry.
Class B Airspace Entry
Class B airspace requires an explicit two-way ATC clearance to enter, along with a Mode C transponder, two-way radio, and appropriate pilot certification/training.
- Clearance must be explicit ('cleared into Class Bravo')
- Mode C transponder required
- Student pilots need specific endorsements
- Surrounds the nation's busiest airports
Memory trick: Class Bravo = 'Big permission needed' before entry.