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FAA Transponder Requirements Explained

Pilot Institute

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has rules to keep air travel safe, and one big part of that is making sure airplanes have the right transponders. Transponders are an important part of an aircraft’s avionics system and help with tracking and safety. Key Takeaways Transponders aid ATC, safety, and tracking.

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Is a Waiver to Fly Drones in Controlled Airspace Still Necessary?

Pilot Institute

What Is Controlled Airspace? The FAA defines controlled airspace as “a generic term that covers the different classifications of airspace (Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class E airspace) and defined dimensions within which air traffic control service is provided to IFR and VFR flights.”

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Understanding Airspace Classes

WayMan

Understanding Airspace classes for student pilots Airspace classes define the structure of the skies, helping pilots navigate safely and efficiently. Each airspace class, from A to G comes with its own set of rules, visibility requirements, and communication protocols. What Are Airspace Classes?

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Class B Airspace—A Pilot’s Guide

Flight Training Central

Class B Basics Class B Airspace Dimensions Minimum Pilot Certification for Class B Airspace Minimum Equipment for Class B Airspace Class B Speed Limitations Getting Around and Through Class B Airspace Class B Basics Yes, it is true that Class B airspace surrounds some of the busiest airports.

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Class C Airspace Explained

Pilot Institute

Key Takeaways Airports that fall under Class C designation handle general aviation and airline traffic. Aircraft need to have a two-way radio, transponder with Mode C, and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out equipment. Before entering Class C airspace, pilots must receive clearance from Air Traffic Control (ATC).

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Class B Airspace Explained

Pilot Institute

VFR flyways, corridors, and transition routes help VFR traffic transit the crowded airspace. What is Class B Airspace? Class B (or Bravo) airspace surrounds the busiest airports in the country. The airspace funnels vast traffic volumes to and from major metro areas. Equipment Requirements A two-way radio.

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VFR Flight Following Explained

Pilot Institute

Aircraft must have a radio and transponder to receive flight following. Required Equipment To use flight following, aircraft must have a radio and transponder. Depending on airspace, a Mode C transponder and ADS-B Out may be required. Radar used by ATC cannot display altitude information without Mode C transponders.