How should a glider respond if entering controlled airspace inadvertently, and what steps to regain compliance?

How should a glider respond if entering controlled airspace inadvertently, and what steps to regain compliance?

• A. Notify ATC but continue as planned.
• B. Do nothing until ATC issues a directive.
• C. Communicate with ATC, follow instructions, and exit to noncontrolled airspace as directed; maintain safety and separation.
• D. Land at the nearest field without communication.

Answer: (C)

When a glider accidentally enters controlled airspace, the priority is to establish two‑way communication with ATC, follow their instructions, and exit to noncontrolled airspace as directed while keeping safe separation from other traffic. This approach puts you under ATC guidance, helps coordinate traffic safely, and gets you back to airspace where you don’t need explicit clearance. Not contacting ATC or continuing with your original plan can create conflicts with other aircraft and ATC traffic flow. Waiting for ATC to issue a directive without initiating contact delays safety actions. Landing at a field without communicating bypasses ATC guidance entirely and may leave you still in controlled airspace or disrupt other traffic. The best practice is clear, immediate communication, adherence to ATC instructions, and a controlled exit to safer airspace.

When a glider accidentally enters controlled airspace, the priority is to establish two‑way communication with ATC, follow their instructions, and exit to noncontrolled airspace as directed while keeping safe separation from other traffic. This approach puts you under ATC guidance, helps coordinate traffic safely, and gets you back to airspace where you don’t need explicit clearance.

Not contacting ATC or continuing with your original plan can create conflicts with other aircraft and ATC traffic flow. Waiting for ATC to issue a directive without initiating contact delays safety actions. Landing at a field without communicating bypasses ATC guidance entirely and may leave you still in controlled airspace or disrupt other traffic. The best practice is clear, immediate communication, adherence to ATC instructions, and a controlled exit to safer airspace.