Transitioning class bravo airspace from Paradise VOR to Van Nuys VOR on v186

[westhawk]

Yes it's possible to do that if SOCAL approach issues an explicit clearance to enter the class bravo airspace. Many pilots flying on V-186 find it more expedient to avoid the need to enter the class B airspace either by deviating around it to the north or by flying at an altitude so as to pass below the shelf. Keep in mind that V-186 at 8,500' is in fairly close proximity to inbound LAX traffic.

Please be sure to obtain an explicit clearance to enter class B airspace if flying under VFR. I know of two cases where pilots violated that very airspace thinking that their receipt of flight following services authorized entry into the class B airspace. Both pilots incorrectly applied the rules for class C airspace to operations in class B airspace!

I personally prefer to just fly below the shelf, but would consider deviating to the north or perhaps even attempting to obtain a clearance if conditions required the higher altitude. Even when flying that route under IFR, your clearance will take you up to POM then VNY to avoid conflicting with LAX arrivals.

Safe and happy flying in SOCAL!

westhawk