Pilot's tip of the week

Class D Communications

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Subscriber question:

"Should you report clear of Class D airspace when exiting the area after departure?" - Tom C.

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Bob:

“No, there is no requirement to report clear of the Class D airspace when exiting, except when requested by the Tower.

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Occasionally the Tower will request this report if traffic is a factor or you are on a special VFR clearance.

It’s important to recognize that a pilot is required to maintain two-way communications with the Tower while in the Class D airspace. Therefore, it is important to know the boundaries of a particular Class D.

Generally, the Class D is constructed using a four nautical mile radius around a towered airport and extends up to 2500 feet AGL. However, a given Class D might be tailored to accommodate specific instrument approaches.

Details on the configuration of a specific Class D airspace can be found on sectional charts.”

(NEW) VFR Mastery scenario #94 “Gulf Coast Gauntlet” is now available. You’ve been dodging showery precipitation all the way home and you’ve got one area to bypass. The catch is the only VFR you can use is the peninsula on the west side of Tampa’s Class B, about 15 miles ahead. You stop and wait, but the only good airport is behind you and still IFR in showers. You circle to consider your options: VFR under the Bravo, VFR with a clearance through the Bravo, land without permission at a private airpark where no one seems to be monitoring the radio, or continue to circle, burning gas and hoping things improve. Watch the Intro video.

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