FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)RegulationsMedium
A private pilot is planning a VFR flight from a non-towered airport to an airport located within Class C airspace. The pilot has received all necessary preflight briefings. To enter Class C airspace, what action must the pilot take?
- AEstablish two-way radio communication with ATC prior to entering the airspace.
- BMonitor the appropriate ATC frequency and squawk the assigned transponder code.
- CReceive a specific clearance from ATC to enter the airspace.
- DContact ATC and state 'entering Class C airspace' upon crossing the boundary.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Establish two-way radio communication with ATC prior to entering the airspace.
To operate in Class C airspace, a pilot must establish two-way radio communication with ATC prior to entering the airspace. This is indicated by ATC responding with the aircraft's callsign.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Monitoring and squawking are generally required for Class C, but two-way communication must be established first.
- C. A specific clearance is required for Class B airspace, not Class C.
- D. Simply stating 'entering Class C' is not sufficient; two-way communication must be established.
Class C Entry Requirement
To enter Class C airspace, a pilot must establish two-way radio communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) prior to entry.
- ATC's readback of the aircraft's callsign confirms communication establishment.
- A transponder with altitude reporting capability (Mode C or S) is also required.
- Specific clearance is not required, unlike Class B airspace.
Memory trick: Charlie needs a chat before you step inside his space!