What action is required when departing a satellite airport within Class D airspace with no operating control tower?

When departing a satellite airport located within Class D airspace where there is no operating control tower, the appropriate action is to contact the controlling tower as soon as practicable after takeoff. Class D airspace typically requires communication with air traffic control, and although the satellite airport does not have an operating tower, the surrounding Class D airspace is still under the jurisdiction of an ATC facility.

The requirement to make contact with the controlling tower stems from the need to establish communication with air traffic control to ensure safe integration into the airspace and to receive necessary instructions or information regarding traffic density, weather conditions, or any other relevant factors. By doing so, pilots enhance safety and situational awareness during their flight, particularly when transitioning into busier airspace where they may encounter other aircraft.

Options that suggest turning back immediately to the ground or calling only for flight following do not fulfill the need for communication as required in Class D airspace. Simply taking off without contacting ATC would disregard the protocols in place to maintain safe and efficient operations within controlled airspace. Thus, the necessity to establish communication with the controlling tower after takeoff is paramount for the safety of all aircraft operating in the vicinity.