For IFR flights in controlled airspace, which equipment must be operable prior to takeoff?

For IFR flights in controlled airspace, which equipment must be operable prior to takeoff?

• A. Communication, Navigation, and Identification
• B. Communication, Navigation, and Autopilot
• C. Navigation, Identification, and Altimeter
• D. Communication, Identification, and Transponder

Answer: (A)

For IFR operations in controlled airspace, ATC must be able to communicate with you, determine your exact position, and identify your aircraft on radar. That trio is covered by three operable systems: two-way radio communications so you can receive ATC clearances and instructions; navigation equipment appropriate to your route so you can fly the assigned course and procedures accurately; and an encoding transponder with altitude reporting so ATC can identify you on radar and know your altitude. Autopilot isn’t required to be operable before takeoff for IFR in controlled airspace, and while the altimeter is part of the IFR equipment list, the option focusing on identification explicitly points to the transponder's radar-identification capability.

For IFR operations in controlled airspace, ATC must be able to communicate with you, determine your exact position, and identify your aircraft on radar. That trio is covered by three operable systems: two-way radio communications so you can receive ATC clearances and instructions; navigation equipment appropriate to your route so you can fly the assigned course and procedures accurately; and an encoding transponder with altitude reporting so ATC can identify you on radar and know your altitude. Autopilot isn’t required to be operable before takeoff for IFR in controlled airspace, and while the altimeter is part of the IFR equipment list, the option focusing on identification explicitly points to the transponder's radar-identification capability.