14 CFR 91.131 — Operations in Class B Airspace
Requires an explicit ATC clearance to enter Class B airspace, operative transponder with Mode C, and specific pilot certificate requirements.
Regulation Text
No person may operate an aircraft within a Class B airspace area except in compliance with the following: The operator must receive an ATC clearance from the ATC facility having jurisdiction for that area before operating an aircraft in that area. VFR pilots must hold at least a private pilot certificate, or be a student pilot who has received specific training and endorsements for that specific Class B airspace area.
Note: This is an excerpt. Refer to the full regulation in eCFR for the complete text.
Plain-English Explanation
Class B airspace surrounds the busiest airports (like JFK, LAX, ORD) and requires an explicit clearance to enter — not just communication. ATC must say 'cleared into Class B airspace' or equivalent. You need a private pilot certificate minimum (student pilots need special endorsements and cannot operate at the 12 busiest Class B airports). Transponder with Mode C is required. Think of Class B as the VIP section of airspace.
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Related Regulations
14 CFR 91.130 — Operations in Class C Airspace
Requires two-way radio communication, operative transponder with Mode C, and ATC communication before entering Class C airspace.
§91.21514 CFR 91.215 — ATC Transponder and Altitude Reporting Equipment and Use
Transponder with Mode C required in Class A, B, and C airspace, above Class B and C, and above 10,000 MSL (with exceptions).
§91.11714 CFR 91.117 — Aircraft Speed
250 knots below 10,000 ft MSL, 200 knots below Class B, 200 knots in Class C/D surface areas and within 4 NM of Class C/D primary airports.
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