Can you legally fly without a transponder?
Can you legally fly without a transponder? A transponder is not required unless an aircraft is operating: In Class A, Class B, or Class C airspace. Above 10,000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL), excluding airspace below 2,500 feet Above Ground Level (AGL).
At what altitude do you need a transponder?
However, if you wish to operate in class A, B, or C airspace, or at an altitude of over 10,000' MSL, or within a 30 nautical mile radius of the primary airport in class B airspace, you will need a transponder and altitude encoder (commonly referred to as "mode C").
Is a transponder check required for VFR flight?
For VFR operations, the FAA requires all transponder-equipped aircraft to be inspected to verify the proper operation of the transponder.
Can pilots still turn off transponder?
The quick answer is NO, pilots cannot turn off the transponder while the aircraft is in flight. The transponder is a vital piece of equipment that is used to identify the aircraft to air traffic control. It also transmits important data about the aircraft, such as its altitude and speed.
What happens if pilot turns off transponder?
It's also worth noting that if the transponder is switched off you generally only lose two pieces of information: the flight identification (mode A & mode S data) and altitude (mode C data). Primary radar will still paint a target (albeit unidentified) as long as the aircraft is within radar range.
Why can pilots turn off radar?
— The device could have an electrical short or catch on fire. Pilots would want to shut it down rather than risk a fire spreading to the rest of the cockpit or airplane.
Can a pilot turn off the transponder?
Pilots must be able to turn off transponders, and sometimes must turn them off for safety reasons.
Can pilots eject and fly again?
There's no fixed number – each individual is unique, as is the ejection that they endure. After ejection, a pilot will be given a full medical evaluation and it is down to that medical professional to advise whether it is recommended that the pilot continues to fly or not.
What does transponder code 7777 mean?
7777 is the transponder code for fighter jets carrying out an “active air defense mission”, i.e. an emergency interception.