FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)RegulationsMedium
A helicopter pilot plans a flight that will transit Class C airspace. According to 14 CFR 91.215, what equipment must be installed and operating for this operation?
- AAn operable Mode C transponder with automatic altitude reporting capability
- BAn HF long-range communication radio
- CDistance measuring equipment (DME)
- DA functioning autopilot system
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. An operable Mode C transponder with automatic altitude reporting capability
14 CFR 91.215 requires an operable Mode C transponder with automatic altitude reporting in Class C (and Class B) airspace, along with the airspace above and around it up to designated limits. DME, autopilot, and HF radio are not required by this regulation.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. HF radio is used for oceanic/remote operations, not Class C airspace.
- C. DME is required for certain operations above FL240, unrelated to Class C transponder rules.
- D. Autopilot is not a regulatory equipment requirement for any airspace class.
Transponder Requirement (91.215)
14 CFR 91.215 requires an operable Mode C transponder with automatic altitude reporting for flight within and above Class B and Class C airspace, and in other designated areas such as the Mode C veil.
- Required in Class B, Class C, and the Mode C veil around Class B
- Also required above 10,000 ft MSL over the 48 contiguous states (excluding below 2,500 AGL)
- ADS-B Out also required in most of this same airspace per 91.225
Memory trick: 'C is for Code' — Class C requires your transponder code (Mode C).