Your transponder is inoperative. What are the requirements for flying in Class D airspace?

When a transponder is inoperative, a pilot may still enter Class D airspace provided they communicate appropriately with air traffic control (ATC) and adhere to visual flight rules (VFR). Class D airspace primarily requires communication with ATC, allowing pilots to enter and operate within it as long as they can maintain visual reference to the ground and comply with any other applicable regulations.

The correct answer hinges on the understanding of the operational rules in Class D airspace, which do not absolutely hinge on the functionality of the transponder. While having an operative transponder is preferred for better tracking and safety in airspace, the absence of one does not automatically prohibit entry. Instead, pilots can continue their flight as long as they follow the required communication protocols with ATC.

In contrast, the options that suggest prohibiting entry or requesting priority handling may impose unnecessary constraints or misinterpret the regulation surrounding operations in Class D airspace when the transponder is not functional. A pilot would simply need to ensure that they are cleared to enter by communicating with ATC under the circumstances while maintaining VFR.