FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)RegulationsMedium
A pilot plans to land at an airport located within Class D airspace. According to 14 CFR 91.129, what must the pilot establish before entering the Class D surface area?
- AVisual contact with all other traffic in the pattern
- BTwo-way radio communication with the ATC facility providing air traffic services
- CA clearance from the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office
- DA filed and activated VFR flight plan
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Two-way radio communication with the ATC facility providing air traffic services
14 CFR 91.129(c) requires pilots to establish two-way radio communication with the ATC facility providing air traffic services prior to entering Class D airspace, and to maintain that communication while in the airspace.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Visual traffic scanning is good practice but is not a regulatory entry requirement.
- C. FSDOs handle certification and enforcement, not tower clearances.
- D. A VFR flight plan is not required to enter Class D airspace.
Class D Radio Communication (91.129)
Pilots must establish two-way radio communication with ATC before entering Class D airspace and maintain it while operating within it.
- Applies to Class D surface areas
- Must establish contact before entry, not just attempt it
- Communication must continue throughout operations in the airspace
Memory trick: 'Dial before you enter D' – radio contact required first.