Airspace classes, entry requirements, equipment, weather minimums, and special use airspace as covered on the PPL oral. Below are real DPE-style questions for the Cessna 152. Every answer cites a primary FAA source — no fabricated regulations, no shortcuts.
8 questions14 CFR Part 91AIM Chapter 3PHAK Chapter 15
Aircraft profile
Cessna 152
Engine
Lycoming O-235-L2C, 110 HP, carbureted
Fuel system
Fuel selector LEFT/RIGHT/BOTH/OFF. Note: some 152s have less straightforward tank crossfeed behavior than 172.
Avionics
Steam gauges
VS0 / VS1
35 KIAS / 43 KIAS kt
VA
varies by weight kt
Max gross
1670 lbs lbs
DPE oral questions · airspace
8 questions a DPE may ask in this section
Question 1 · PA.I.E.K1
Look at this sectional chart. What type of airspace surrounds this airport, and what must you do before entering it?
What a DPE expects to hear
Dashed blue circle = Class D airspace
Must establish two-way radio communication with the tower BEFORE entering
Tower frequency is 128.625 shown as CT on the chart
ASOS 127.375 for weather
Field elevation 628 feet — lighting available L 61
Source14 CFR 91.129; AIM 3-2-5
Question 2 · PA.I.E.K1
Look at this sectional chart. You see the notation 'NO SVFR' over this airport. What does that mean and when would it affect you?
What a DPE expects to hear
NO SVFR means Special VFR operations are NOT authorized in this airspace
Even if weather is below VFR minimums you cannot request SVFR here
Applies to the Class B surface area around DFW
Must receive specific clearance 'Cleared into the Class Bravo' before entering Class B
Multiple CT frequencies listed — use correct one for your direction of approach
Source14 CFR 91.157; AIM 3-2-3; 14 CFR 91.131
Question 3 · PA.I.E.K1
Look at this sectional chart. You see a magenta circle labeled 'MODE C & ADS-B OUT 30 NM.' What equipment must your aircraft have operating when flying inside this ring — and does it apply even if you never enter the Class B itself?
What a DPE expects to hear
Mode C transponder required within 30 NM of the Class B primary airport
ADS-B Out required in the same area
Applies from surface to 10,000 feet MSL
Required even if you NEVER enter the Class B itself
Lancaster Regional LNC inside the ring still requires this equipment
The R symbol indicates a private field — private does not exempt from equipment requirements
Source14 CFR 91.215; 14 CFR 91.225
Question 4 · PA.I.E
You call Approach to enter Class C. They reply 'Aircraft calling, standby.' Are you clear to enter?
What a DPE expects to hear
NO — two-way communication requires controller to use your specific tail number
'Aircraft calling' does not establish two-way comm
Stay outside
SourceAIM 3-2-4; ACS Task I.E
Question 5 · PA.I.E
ATC is giving you vectors. Do you have permission to fly through the blue circle (Class B)?
What a DPE expects to hear
No — must hear specific phrase 'Cleared into the Class Bravo airspace'
Being in communication is not enough
Source14 CFR 91.131; ACS Task I.E
Question 6 · PA.I.E
It's dusk and destination visibility is 2 miles. Can you request Special VFR as a Private Pilot?
What a DPE expects to hear
No — to operate SVFR at NIGHT, pilot must be instrument rated AND aircraft must be IFR-equipped
Source14 CFR 91.157; ACS Task I.E
Question 7 · PA.I.E
You call Approach to enter Class C: 'Dayton Approach, Skyhawk 172SP, 10 miles out.' They reply: 'Aircraft calling, standby.' Are you clear to enter?
What a DPE expects to hear
No — two-way radio communication only established when controller uses your specific tail number
Must remain outside Class C
SourceAIM 3-2-4; PHAK Chapter 15
Question 8 · PA.I.E
We're approaching a Class D airport. At what point are you legally required to have established two-way radio communication?
What a DPE expects to hear
Must establish two-way communication PRIOR to entering lateral boundaries of Class D — typically 4 NM from the center
Source14 CFR 91.129; AIM 3-2-5
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