Overview
This lecture covers the characteristics, entry requirements, communications, weather minimums, and necessary equipment for operating in Class C (Charlie) airspace for private pilots.
Class C Airspace Characteristics
- Class C airspace has an upside-down wedding cake shape with shelves.
- Identified on VFR sectionals by solid magenta rings around the airfield.
- Typically, the inner ring extends 5 nautical miles from the surface to 4000 feet AGL.
- The outer ring usually spans 10 nautical miles, starting at 1200 feet AGL to 4000 feet AGL.
- Altitudes are shown as improper fractions on the sectional (e.g., 2300 MSL/4700 MSL).
- Segmented shelves may vary in altitude.
Entry and Communication Requirements
- Must establish two-way radio communications with ATC prior to entering Class C airspace.
- Two-way communication means you hear your full call sign read back by ATC.
- Contacting approach controllers within 20 nautical miles is recommended but not strictly required.
- Must comply with any ATC instructions given before or during entry.
Radio Communications Procedure
- Standard format: Who they are, who you are, where you are, what you want.
- Example: “Tulsa Approach, Cessna 6789X, 20 miles NW, 3500 with Tango, request straight-in runway 18L.”
- ATC will assign heading, altitude, and squawk code; repeat instructions and your call sign to confirm.
- Always repeat full clearance and runways when landing clearance is given.
VFR Weather Minimums
- Minimum visibility: 3 statute miles.
- Cloud clearance: 500 feet below, 1000 feet above, and 2000 feet horizontally from clouds.
- Memory aid: “3152” (3 miles, 1000 above, 500 below, 2000 horizontal).
Required Equipment
- Working two-way radio is mandatory for communication.
- Transponder with Mode C (altitude reporting) and capable of Mode 3A/Mode S operation.
- ADS-B Out (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast) is required wherever a transponder is required, including above the Class C shelf.
- Exceptions may exist for ADS-B Out requirements—see 14 CFR 91.225.
Key Terms & Definitions
- AGL — Above Ground Level.
- MSL — Mean Sea Level.
- ATC — Air Traffic Control, who manages airspace traffic.
- Squawk code — Transponder code assigned by ATC for radar identification.
- ADS-B Out — Equipment that broadcasts position to ATC via satellite.
- VFR — Visual Flight Rules, regulations for flying in visual weather conditions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Sectional charts to identify Class C airspace and interpret shelf altitudes.
- Practice radio communication scenarios using the standard format.
- Check aircraft equipment for required transponder and ADS-B capabilities.
- Review 14 CFR 91.225 for ADS-B exceptions if applicable.