Launching Without Control

Unless there is a departure procedure (DP) or obstacle departure procedure (ODP), pilots departing from an airport located in Class G airspace are on their own for navigation. But then, unless the clearance includes a departure procedure, pilots are always responsible for their navigation from the pavement into the en route structure until they are radar identified and on an active vector. Take it from us, if there is a DP, especially an ODP, use it. ODPs exist because there are hard objects somewhere in your potential departure path.

Key Takeaways:

• Pilots are primarily responsible for their own navigation and obstacle clearance during departure, strongly recommending the use of Departure Procedures (DPs) and especially Obstacle Departure Procedures (ODPs) when available.
• A clearance is required to enter controlled airspace in less than visual conditions, and pilots should be prepared to maintain their own terrain/obstacle clearance if ATC cannot provide vectors due to Minimum Vectoring Altitude (MVA) limitations.
• Departure procedures, particularly ODPs, take precedence over ATC-issued headings for obstacle avoidance; pilots must ensure their safe flight path until radar identified and cleared on course.

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