Small Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turboprop Eng
Flight Crew Private; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 30; Flight Crew Total 925; Flight Crew Type 180
Communication Breakdown; Confusion; Distraction
ATC Issue All Types; Airspace Violation All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Returned To Clearance
Procedure
I was on flight following to PAO and talking to ATC when they informed [me] that I had just transitioned LVK's airspace and that I should call LVK; which I did right away. LVK Tower told me that they would like me to call first before transiting their airspace. I was under the impression that if I was talking to ATC already that I did not need to go off frequency to call the Tower; but I now understand that I need to call whoever's airspace I am in to communicate. This route over LVK is a high traffic route and talking to multiple controllers would only add to my work load; so for me; I will either route around Class D airspace or climb over as needed from now on.
Discussed 7110.65 2-1-16 Surface Areas; controller's responsibility with pilot. He was extremely grateful that we called to get more information from him and reassured his mind in what he had been thinking for the last twenty years.
Pilot under flight following is advised he has violated a Tower's airspace. Pilot is confused and thought ATC would take care of the issue of the point out.