Do you need a transponder above Class C?

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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However, if you wish to operate in class A, B, or C airspace, or at an altitude of over 10,000' MSL, or within a 30 nautical mile radius of the primary airport in class B airspace, you will need a transponder and altitude encoder (commonly referred to as "mode C").

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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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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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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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The ceiling of a Class C airspace should be 4,000 feet above the primary airport's field elevation. The surface area extends from the surface to the upper limit of the airspace. The floor of the airspace between the 5 and the 10 NM must extend from no lower than 1,200 feet AGL to the upper limit of the airspace.

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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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Can aircraft without ADS-B Out equipment overfly Class C airspace? Yes, but only in exceptional circumstances because flight over Class C airspace is not permitted without appropriate ADS-B equipment.

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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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VFR aircraft must obtain an ATC clearance to operate in Class B airspace.

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Mode C Transponder and Airspace In order to travel within this airspace, you absolutely must have the proper equipment, unless you are one of the exceptions – a glider, a balloon, or an aircraft without a certified engine-driven electrical system.

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Class C: This is the controlled airspace above 7,500 feet and surrounding major airports. Both IFR and VFR flights are permitted and both require ATC clearance and separation service is to be provided by ATC. Class G: This airspace is uncontrolled.

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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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