Can I fly without a transponder?

[steingar]

The annual nightmare for the Free Bird continues. My transponder isn't fixed, and won't be by the time I need to take off for the upcoming fly-in at Wings. My mechanic is willing to do a modified weight and balance, and placard the aircraft accordingly. Can I do this legally? I am especially concerned as LOM lies within the Philadelphia mode C veil.

 

[HerrGruyere]

IIRC, you might need a transponder in a Mode C veil.

 

[tonycondon]

as long as you can get permission from Philly to enter the mode C veil you can make the flight. I've had to do this before in Kansas City (radio call from the air) and Memphis (phone call from an outlying airport)

 

[EdFred]

Philly Approach : 800-354-9884. Not sure if that's just for releases, but you can start there.

 

[Mattl]

Philly Approach : 800-354-9884. Not sure if that's just for releases, but you can start there.

I'd also make sure that you can get in and OUT; Otherwise you're going to be paying for a transponder at Wings Field.

 

[EdFred]

I'd also make sure that you can get in and OUT; Otherwise you're going to be paying for a transponder at Wings Field.

Nah, just keep the name of the guy that gave you permission to come in. It's not like Wings is in a high traffic corridor. Just follow the turnpike straight out. But yeah, on the call to come in, I'd verify leaving Sunday morning to not be an issue.

 

[steingar]

Thanks for the number Ed. The guy in Philly said it shouldn't be a problem, just call approach before I hit the mode C. I'll have to give them a phone call before I depart.

What a pain. And my blasted transponder has only been in service 600 hours in an aircraft that spends most of it's time hangared.

 

[Ted]

What kind of transponder is it? Any chance you could borrow one?

 

[BillTIZ]

Remember to stay below 10K MSL.

 

[steingar]

Remember to stay below 10K MSL.

Not a huge problem with a Cherokee, but thanks. Wouldn't have remembered that.

They were supposed to put in a loner, but it won't be here until well after I'm scheduled to get out of here. Too little, too late.