📘14 CFR §91.131 – Operations in Class B Airspace
🚩 Overview
Class B airspace surrounds the busiest airports with high-density traffic. Strict communication, equipment requirements, and ATC clearances are mandatory to operate safely and compliantly.
✅ Key Operational Requirements
📻 1. ATC Clearance and Communication
You must receive an explicit ATC clearance prior to entering Class B airspace.
Maintain two-way radio communication at all times while within Class B airspace.
📡 2. Equipment Requirements
Aircraft must be equipped with:
Two-way radio
Mode C (altitude-reporting) transponder
ADS-B Out (within ADS-B mandated airspace areas)
🛫 3. Pilot Qualifications
To operate in Class B airspace, you must hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate, or
If you're a student pilot, you must have a specific endorsement from your instructor for that particular Class B airspace.
🚀 4. Speed Limits
250 knots maximum while operating inside Class B airspace.
200 knots maximum while flying below or within VFR corridors through Class B airspace.
🛩 5. Operational Compliance
Adhere strictly and promptly to all ATC instructions regarding headings, altitudes, and clearances within Class B airspace.
🛩️ Example Scenario
You're planning a flight through Class B airspace around a major city. Before entering, contact ATC, clearly stating your intentions and requesting a specific clearance. You must hear “cleared into Class B airspace” before entry. Continuously monitor your radios, adhere to instructions, and adjust airspeed according to published limits.
📌 CFI Pro Tips
Clearances are Essential: Reinforce the importance of receiving explicit clearances, not just radio acknowledgment, to enter Class B airspace.
Planning Ahead: Teach students thorough preflight planning for Class B operations, including reviewing VFR Terminal Area Charts, required clearances, and communication frequencies.
📚 Further Reading and Official References
14 CFR §91.131 (Full FAA Regulation): https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-91/subpart-B/section-91.131
FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Class B Operations: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap3_section_2.html
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