Class D/C Airspace
 

So on my recent CFI-A check ride, the examiner pointed to a Class C airspace on the sectional and asked what airspace existed at the airport at the surface. I told him it was a Class C because it extends from the surface to 4000 feet (typically). He then told me I was technically incorrect. He said that all Class C airspace are a Class D inside a C, because according to the FARs, a Class D is airspace which surrounds a controlled/towered airport. That was his reasoning at least...I then told him he was incorrect because a Class D does not require a Mode C altitude reporting transponder, in which case this Class C airport definitely did (because, well, its a Class C...). I tried to please him and just tell him I'll look into it, but I'm pretty sure I was right...This is coming from the same guy that also told me that servo trim tabs move in the same direction as the elevator...Anyone have any thoughts?

Guess you didn't get to the ride lol?

Ask him these questions:

1. Where is the segmented blue circle on the sectional that signifies Class D*?
2. Why doesn't it mention the Class D status in the AFD?
3. Check out FAR 71.61 and the Order it references**.
4. Give me a reference to one official publication or recognized aviation author who agrees with you.


...or you could just chalk it up to having one of "those" instructors.

* as I recall, there are a few: Class C that reverts to Class D dues to part-time Class C status. You can also compare it to the various TRSAs that are still around - they will show the Class D segmented circle.

**btw, he's probably using as his reference the "general" definition of Class D that appears in the AIM. The official one is in Part 71 and the Order referenced is a list of all Class C and D airspace.

Also ask how all the class Bs are really class Ds and if that is the case, can we send all our students around the pattern without any class Bravo training. This doesn't make any sense. Maybe he was playing with you, or more likely just plain wrong. It happens, examiners are human beings too.

Honestly, you should call the FSDO and report your experiences with this guy.

btw, never tell an Examiner he's incorrect. "Gee, thank you. I didn't realize that" is usually enough to diffuse the issue, successfully complete the ride, and get on with it.

(Yes, like everything else, there are exceptions, but the "heat" of a checkride is rarely the time to think you have one)