FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

Which of the following is a requirement for aircraft operating in Class B airspace?

1. An ATC transponder is not needed in Class B.

2. The aircraft must be equipped with an ATC transponder and altitude reporting equipment.

3. Only visual flight rules are permitted.

4. The aircraft must have a flight instructor on board.

The correct answer is: The aircraft must be equipped with an ATC transponder and altitude reporting equipment.

In Class B airspace, one of the key requirements is for aircraft to be equipped with an ATC transponder and altitude reporting equipment. This requirement is in place to ensure that air traffic control can effectively monitor and manage the increased traffic density and complexity often found in Class B airspace, which typically surrounds major airports. The ATC transponder provides identification and altitude information to radar, enhancing situational awareness for air traffic controllers and helping to maintain safe separation between aircraft. The equipment enables effective communication and tracking within the heavily trafficked airspace, which is particularly important given the mix of commercial airliners, GA aircraft, and other types of operations that can occur simultaneously. Without the transponder and altitude reporting capabilities, an aircraft would not meet the safety standards required to operate in such environments, which is reflected in the regulations governing Class B airspace.