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Radio Failure

Asked by: 7031 views General Aviation

If you have radio failure outside control airspace are you allowed to enter a control airspace?

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2 Answers

  1. Best Answer


    Bill Trussell on Dec 14, 2012

    In the creation of each type of controlled airspace the FAA spells out the requirements for entry and operation within that airspace. Depending upon the type or “class” (A,B,C,D,E) the requirements calling for communications capability and equipment vary, along with other requirements such as IFR vs. VFR in the case of class A. There is not a single answer to your question but rather one of needing to understand the type of airspace your are desiring to enter. In the case of Class E you can operate within or enter into without communications capability. All other classes require clearances and/or communications to enter.

    As a practical matter one should also consider why the different classes were established, namely to ensure ATC the opportunity to provide separation services and to establish specific weather minimums. Without communications separation is more difficlut if not impractical. In the scenario provided it would be better to remain clear of all but class E airspace and resolve the communications failure prior to entry into any other controlled airspace.

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  2. Wes Beard on Dec 14, 2012

    Class D airspace is different than bravo or charlie airspace. If your radio fails in flight on a VFR flight you can continue to a Class D airport in VMC conditions and land provided you have sight of the tower and receive a clearance to land via light gun signals.

    http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=11443edd934b2a4c7f185a1f16736d2d&rgn=div8&view=text&node=14:2.0.1.3.10.2.4.16&idno=14

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