What must pilots maintain with the tower while operating in Class B, C, or D surface areas?

Pilots operating in Class B, C, or D airspace must maintain two-way radio contact with air traffic control (ATC). This requirement is essential for ensuring safe and efficient management of air traffic in these controlled airspace areas, where communication with ATC is critical for situational awareness, traffic separation, and adherence to instructions.

Maintaining two-way radio contact allows pilots to receive clearances, instructions, and important information regarding traffic and weather conditions, which can minimize the risk of mid-air collisions. This communication dynamic is especially important in busy airspace, where the movement of aircraft is frequent, and real-time coordination is necessary.

While visual contact and altitude confirmations may be important aspects of flying and safety, they do not fulfill the specific communication requirement mandated for operations in controlled airspace. Flight plan details are also not a primary obligation during regular operations, as routine coordination is managed through ATC communication rather than continuous updates from pilots about their plans.