FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

For flight operations to or from a satellite airport within Class C airspace without an operating control tower, what must a pilot do?

1. Fly at a higher altitude than the surrounding area

2. Perform a visual approach only

3. Establish and maintain communication with the ATC serving facility

4. Obtain a Special VFR clearance prior to entry

The correct answer is: Establish and maintain communication with the ATC serving facility

To operate at a satellite airport within Class C airspace that lacks an operating control tower, it is essential for a pilot to establish and maintain communication with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) serving facility. This requirement is in place to ensure safe coordination with ATC, which manages the traffic in that airspace. By communicating effectively, the pilot can receive important information regarding traffic, potential conflicts, and any necessary instructions to maintain safe and orderly operations. Establishing and maintaining communication helps facilitate the flow of traffic and is crucial for situational awareness in busy airspaces. In the absence of a control tower, this communication still allows the pilot to operate safely within the airspace while adhering to Class C airspace regulations. Other options, while related to flying safety and operations, do not fulfill the specific requirement dictated by Class C airspace regulations regarding satellite airports.