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Can you fly over Class C airspace without a transponder?

Two-way radio communications and operational transponder are normally required for operations within Class C airspace, but operations without radio communications or transponder can be conducted by LOA, facility directive, or special arrangement with Class C airspace controlling facility.



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Class C airspace never requires a separate clearance. If you are in two-way communications with the controlling facility, you satisfy the requirements for authorization through Class C airspace.

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To enter Class C airspace, all aircraft must meet the following requirements:
  • Two-way radio.
  • Mode-C transponder.
  • ADS-B Out device.
  • Establishment of two-way communication with the airspace controller.
  • Follow speed restrictions.


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As described in 14 CFR 91.225, ADS-B Out performance is required to operate in: Class A, B, and C airspace. Above the ceiling and within the lateral boundaries of a Class B or Class C airspace area upward to 10,000 feet MSL .

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A transponder is not required unless an aircraft is operating: In Class A, Class B, or Class C airspace. Above 10,000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL), excluding airspace below 2,500 feet Above Ground Level (AGL).

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Before entering Class C airspace, the pilot MUST establish communication with the radar service. Radio contact with radar and/or tower must be maintained when in this airspace. You may request Flight Following Radar Service outside the 10 mile shelf. It may be granted on a workload permitting basis.

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Can we fly over it? Technically yes, BUT it's still a very bad idea because a motor out would force you to descend through the Class C airspace. We CAN'T fly here without special permission from ATC. Permission should be obtained in advance by telephone (some controllers will accept a radio call).

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ADS-B, typically, does not outright replace your Mode C transponder but is an addition to it.

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Civil aircraft may be equipped with transponders capable of operating in different modes: Mode A equipment transmits an identifying code only. Mode C equipment enables the ATCO to see the aircraft altitude or flight level automatically.

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A Primary Radar System. Typically located on the control tower or other strategic location on the airport, the Primary Radar antenna is able to detect and display aircraft that are not equipped with or have malfunctioning transponders or ADS-B.

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Unless otherwise authorized or required by ATC, no person may operate an aircraft at or below 2,500 feet above the surface within 4 nautical miles of the primary airport of a Class C airspace area at an indicated airspeed of more than 200 knots (230 mph).

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For VFR operations, the FAA requires all transponder-equipped aircraft to be inspected to verify the proper operation of the transponder.

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There's one more thing to keep in mind when you're operating in Class B airspace: in general, you need to be at least a private pilot to enter the airspace. Student, sport and recreational pilots can enter specific Class B airspaces, but only after they receive training and an endorsement from an instructor.

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The purpose of Class C airspace is to enhance aviation safety in the terminal area and to decrease the risk of midair collisions by providing traffic separation service.

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