Class D XPDR

[Tango01]

Just to double check, all Class D Airspace in the Toronto FIR is not transponder airspace correct?


Thanks

[lexx]

Sort of.

For example. You may certainly transit (a control zone), arrive or depart a controlled airport if your aircraft is not equipped with a transponder if you have authority from the concerned control tower.

You do not have the right to do everything you want. You need permission. This way the tower maintains a manageable flow. Transponder or not.

Having a transponder during 'busy days' allows a controller to safely handle more aircraft and provide the service to more pilots. If for example there are 5 or so in the circuit, multiple simulated approaches going on, and a mitt full of high speed aircraft in the area coming and going, you may be denied entrance to the control zone with your non transponder equipped aircraft, whereas you may have been allowed if you had a transponder and the controller deemed it 'workable'.

All controllers may limit traffic to a number they feel they can safely handle. Having a transponder is a factor the controller considers.

If you don't have a transponder, service to you may be delayed to a quieter period.

[Tango01]

Thanks Lexx, but here is the thing. Once you establish two-way communication with the tower, your in. Not like you need a clearance to enter Class D in VFR.

[squibbler]

Thanks Lexx, but here is the thing. Once you establish two-way communication with the tower, your in. Not like you need a clearance to enter Class D in VFR.

Correct. BUT......consider these points:

> You transmit to TWR and are told to STANDBY. You are entitled to enter the zone but is it a good idea to blindly fly on in?

> If it's mandatory transponder airspace 2-way alone does not allow you to enter, you still require permission from ATC.

We often have non-transponder traffic here at YQT. Most pilots call ahead to advise they are non transponder and to ask if we'll accept them. Usually it's not a problem as we have a heads up on what we'll be dealing with. From my own perspective simply telling pilots (transponder equipped or not) who wish to enter Class D to standby is not enough. Mostly they will just come right on in without a thought to potential traffic conflictions - POOR AIRMANSHIP! Therefore, most controllers will say "Standby, remain outside the zone". Then you CANNOT come on in without a clearance.

[lexx]

Thanks Lexx, but here is the thing. Once you establish two-way communication with the tower, your in. Not like you need a clearance to enter Class D in VFR.

Again, sort of.

My standard phraseology on initial contact when I deem it appropriate is, "Stand-by, remain clear of the zone, squawk xxxx". If you don’t have a transponder you’re left with, “Stand-by, remain clear of the zone”

You better not come in after acknowledging that. Acknowledging that transmission establishes two way communication and you still can't come in.

You're not gaining anything by barreling in at that point anyway. If the controller needs you to remain clear of the zone it's for a reason, quite possibly your own safety.

[Tango01]

Fair enough, but the only way a controller can keep you away from the zone is by issuing a specific instruction.

Not having a XPDR limits your options.

[lexx]

Fair enough, but the only way a controller can keep you away from the zone is by issuing a specific instruction.

Well until Nav Canada comes up with a politically correct surface to air missle, 'instructions' are the only thing controllers have ever had in their bag of tricks anyway.