Prior to operating in Class B airspace without a transponder, to whom must a deviation request be submitted?

The requirement to submit a deviation request before operating in Class B airspace without a transponder is directed towards the controlling Air Traffic Control (ATC) facility. This facility is responsible for managing and ensuring the safe operation of air traffic in its designated airspace, which includes Class B airspace, known for its higher traffic density and stricter regulations.

When a pilot requests a deviation, it is primarily for safety reasons and compliance with airspace regulations. The controlling ATC facility can assess the specific situation and make decisions based on current traffic conditions, airspace requirements, and safety protocols. They are equipped to provide guidance and potentially grant permission for the deviation based on their operational parameters and traffic management.

Submitting the request to the nearest FAA General Aviation District Office, the FAA Administrator, or an Air Traffic Control Center would not be appropriate since those entities do not have the immediate authority or situational awareness to address the specific operational circumstances surrounding the flight in question. Thus, the controlling ATC facility is the correct choice for submitting a deviation request when operating in Class B airspace without a transponder.