I'm going to be flying to KCOS (class C) next week. I have never flown into class C airspace before.

Curious what to expect? Is it similar to a busy class D area? Can I expect to be vectored around quite a bit?

Any tips would be appreciated.

Pretty much the same. Just expect another frequency of approach/departure for the outer ring. Beyond the main tower area, or inner ring. They will tell you when to switch frequencies.

If you do a full stop and go inside the FBO, you have to call clearance before contacting ground. All they want to know is VFR or IFR; altitude you want; where you are going or a cardinal direction. Call ground before you move, because the ramp is usually controlled.

Thank you yimke

You should not have any problems with Class C. There are a few more freq changes. I'd make sure I'm familiar with the airport diagram, know where I'm parking, and how to get there from each runway. You could request the runway that will give you the easiest taxi to/from the FBO. Get the ATIS before initial contact if you can.

Our class C (KCAE) is usually quiet, but there can be busy times. YMMV

Let us know how it goes.

Here's a link to KCOS. HS=Hot spots, places where the probability of screwing up are raised.
<insert legal disclaimer about chart here>

http://155.178.201.160/d-tpp/1311/00087AD.PDF

That's really helpful. Thank you.

I was completing a Wings course last week and it stated you can request 'Progressive Taxi' at unfamiliar airports, which basically is turn by turn instructions from what I understand.

Correct. Check out AirNav: KCOS - City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport and of course, the AF/D.

Looks like an interesting airport to fly in to - multiple runways, mil traffic, elevation (sea level guy here), etc.

Have fun!

Depending on your circumstances, bringing a pilot friend or instructor with you wouldn't be a bad idea.

Just curious how you never flew into a class "c" airspace?

I did my training in the Denver Metro area. So I have flown in D and below B. Colorado Springs is the only class c airspace in the area and I really never had any desire to go there until we won a free hotel stay.

COS airspace is a no-brainer. Just listen, write everything down, and if you are in doubt, just ask the controllers. It isn't like you are flying into New York or Miami. They are generally not very busy (peak times can be a bit busy) and are super helpful.

The airfield is a bit of a maze to taxi in, so review the diagram, write down the taxi instructions, and if you are in doubt, just ask the ground controller. You will see everything from heavies to military to light civil at that airfield.

About contacting clearance above: If you are IFR, just state "IFR to _____ (wherever your destination is on your filed flight plan". VFR is when you want to give them an altitude and direction (ie VFR to the west at 12,000).

Have fun, it is a great city and the scenery there is beautiful.

Thanks for the advice everyone. I just flew in on Tuesday and was in the pattern with a C-130, awesome! Everything was pretty straight forward as mentioned.