ATC Notification In Class C Airspace, Part 107

[toniintc]

I'm almost afraid to ask this, but I've searched the forums here and Google and am not confident in an answer either way. I'm studying for my part 107. It was my understanding that with a part 107 I wouldn't have to obtain ATC authorization to fly within 5 miles of an airport (but outside the NFZ).

Is this correct?

To be specific, I live in Traverse City, MI. If you look on a map, there are large bodies of water (West and East Grand Traverse Bay) whose southern ends are within 5 miles of the airport, TVC. Great opportunities for video/photography, as are other locations near here and other airports in the region. I've contacted ATC for previous clearance and had no issue, but I'm wondering if it's required to do so with a 107? I've seen answers both ways and the regs seem to indicate it's still required.

Thanks for a straight answer.

 

[sar104]

Under Part 107, authorization to fly goes purely by airspace, not by proximity to airports. If the airspace is Class G (uncontrolled) then you can fly in it without any notification or other authorization required. If it is Class B, C, D or surface Class E then you require FAA authorization or waiver.

KTVC has a 5 mile radius surface Class D 1200 - 0200Z, surface Class E at other times. Beyond that the airspace is uncontrolled at the surface.

 

[toniintc]

That's what I thought. There is misinformation in various places on the internet about this (and here I thought everything I read on the internet was true).

As an aside for my understanding, why is KTVC class D? Wikipedia's airspace definitions say class D are airports with few IFR approaches, generally no commercial service and a radius of 4 miles. KTVC has regular commercial service and offers IFR.

 

[sar104]

That's what I thought. There is misinformation in various places on the internet about this (and here I thought everything I read on the internet was true).

As an aside for my understanding, why is KTVC class D? Wikipedia's airspace definitions say class D are airports with few IFR approaches, generally no commercial service and a radius of 4 miles. KTVC has regular commercial service and offers IFR.

It's towered but not 24/7, and likely not busy enough to warrant Class C.

 

[flockshot]

I suggest you eliminate all doubt and give TVC a call and talk to them. They have little commercial traffic and they will help you out. I have dealt with them from time to time going to Woosley (D5D) and they are always helpful.

 

[sar104]

I suggest you eliminate all doubt and give TVC a call and talk to them. They have little commercial traffic and they will help you out. I have dealt with them from time to time going to Woosley (D5D) and they are always helpful.

He could certainly ask but there is no ambiguity or doubt here at all. Distance from airports not a criterion when flying under Part 107 - airspace class is all that matters, and that is defined on the relevant sectional.