Q. I have asked this question of at least three flight instructors, and no one has yet been able to give me a confident answer. I have consulted the Aeronautical Information Manual 4-1-19 and the federal aviation regulations Part 91.215, but I am still somewhat confused by the wording. So, it would seem, are the instructors. I am a private pilot with 1,000 hours. I have spent most of my time in more sophisticated aircraft and have operated in quite a bit of controlled airspace, but I have recently acquired a more simple platform for aviation.
I now fly a 1946 Taylorcraft with no electrical system and therefore no transponder (although I have a handheld radio and a handheld GPS). What airspace may I or may I not navigate through (with or without the radio)? I assume that Class B is prohibited, but what about the 30-mile Mode-C transponder veil around Class B airports? For example, since I live in Central Illinois, look at the St. Louis Class B airspace. Can I fly into Creve Coeur or St. Charles County airports?
I have queried several other pilots who fly similar aircraft, and they are also unsure as to the regulations. And not very many flight instructors seem to be well-versed in this esoteric question, either.
Thanks so much,
Roger
A. FAR 91.215(b)(3) is the correct reference in the regulations. Since your Taylorcraft does not have, nor was it originally certified with, an electrical system, you are exempt from the transponder requirement. You can fly under the Class B area of St. Louis, including Creve Coeur and St. Charles airports.
Operations within the Mode-C veil are also permitted. What is not allowed is flight in Class A, B, or C airspace. Flight in Class D is permitted provided that you can communicate with the tower on their frequencies. For example, you can fly into Spirit Airport if you can talk on frequency 124.75 MHz.
Craig Brown
Senior Technical Specialist
AOPA Aviation Services Department
