What should pilots do before entering Class C airspace?

Pilots must request clearance from Air Traffic Control (ATC) before entering Class C airspace, which is designed to provide a controlled environment for operations around busy airports. Class C airspace typically surrounds airports with a significant amount of commercial traffic, and ATC services help manage this traffic to ensure safe separation among aircraft.

Once pilots request clearance, ATC will provide instructions, including altitude restrictions or specific routes, to ensure that all aircraft can operate safely within this airspace. This requirement for ATC clearance is in place to enhance safety and efficiency in the vicinity of airports, where a mix of general aviation and commercial flights operate.

While ensuring the weather is VFR, flying at or below a certain altitude, and having a flight plan may be relevant considerations for flying in general airspace, they do not specifically address the protocols for Class C airspace entry. Therefore, requesting clearance from ATC is the crucial step that must be taken first.