Can you fly under 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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Specifically, a Mode C transponder is required if you wish to operate in Class A, B, or C airspace, at an altitude of over 10,000' MSL, or within a 30-nautical mile radius of the primary airport in Class B airspace.

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Most airspace in the United States is class E. The airspace above FL600 is also class E. No ATC clearance or radio communication is required for VFR flight in class E airspace.

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Class C service requires pilots to establish two-way radio communications before entering Class C airspace. If the controller responds to a radio call with, “(a/c call sign) standby,” radio communications have been established and the pilot can enter Class C airspace.

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While you don't need an operable transponder to fly below a Class C shelf, you will need one to fly above Class C airspace. As you approach a Class C airport, you'll contact that airspace's approach control. Call ATC on the radio before you're in Class C airspace and make sure to tell them: Your position.

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If requested by ATC, pilots are allowed to turn off the transponder.

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Entering Class C airspace requires a mode C transponder, and two-way communications (meaning that ATC says your tail number). To transition through or land at a Class C airspace, make the request within 20 miles.

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The FAA requires ADS-B Out capability in the continental United States, in the ADS-B rule airspace designated by FAR 91.225: Class A, B, and C airspace; Class E airspace at or above 10,000 feet msl, excluding airspace at and below 2,500 feet agl; Within 30 nautical miles of a Class B primary airport (the Mode C veil);

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Class B airspace surrounds the busiest airports from the surface to 10,000 feet MSL. The dimensions of Class B airspace vary depending on the needs of the airport. Class C airspace extends from the surface to 4,000 feet MSL.

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An ATC clearance is required for all aircraft that receive separation services within the airspace. Even though you may be operating below the Bravo, you should use caution against operating too closely to the boundaries, especially where the floor of the Class B airspace is 3,000 feet or less above the surface.

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You may fly without ADSB under the Class B or Class C shelf provided you remain outside of any Mode C veil. §91.225 tells you where you cannot fly. It says you cannot fly within the lateral boundaries of the Class B or C airspace or above the airspace.

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For aircraft operating at or above FL180 (18,000 feet), you must be equipped with a Mode S-transponder-based ADS-B transmitter. For aircraft operating below 18,000 feet and within U.S. airspace, you must be equipped with either a Mode S transponder with Extended Squitter or a Universal Access Transceiver (UAT).

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