![]() ![]() ![]() For busy airspace: On the initial call to ATC, especially when the frequency is busy, a slight pause (say 1 second) after initial contact is helpful to the controller.Thinking ahead also means getting the ATIS or ASOS/AWOS before contacting the tower or before entering the airport traffic area at a non-towered field.Think ahead and set up your radios in advance so that, when you do need to change frequencies, you can do so with one button push instead of several.Practice with the avionics in the aircraft you are flying so that you can enter new frequencies quickly and efficiently.See more on clearance read back in the AIM. When reading back instructions, be sure to include your aircraft tail number with your read back. Read back: certain instructions from ATC must be repeated back to ATC.You can always ask for “Progressive Taxi” and ATC will provide instructions in stages or incrementally as you taxi. Note “hot spots” and always ask for help if there is any confusion about taxi instructions or if you are not sure of your position. Study and use the airport taxi diagram, especially if you are flying into an airport for the first time.This will allow you to go back to the previous frequency if contact cannot be established on the newly assigned frequency. Take advantage of this to enter the new frequency into the stand-by display and then switch that to be the active frequency. With newer radios there is usually a “flip/flop” function to allow 2 comm frequencies (active and stand-by) to be displayed simultaneously.Double check that you have correctly set up your avionics before transmitting. When receiving a clearance from ATC, follow these three steps: 1) write it down, 2) read it back, 3) dial it in (e.g., a transponder “squawk,” departure heading, altitude assignment or comm frequency).Be patient however, if the frequency is very busy, sometimes you just have to break in at the first opportunity. ![]() Wait a few seconds and listen before transmitting to avoid transmitting when someone else is already transmitting or expecting a response.Write down common and often used phrases if you have to as this will help you learn standard phraseology. If you are a new pilot, think about what you want to say first and listen to and practice with your instructor (and at home) before you key the mic and start talking.For non-towered airports, study the table in the AIM Chapter 4 (Table 4-1-1) titled: “Summary of Recommended Communication Procedures.”.Also review AIM Chapter 4, especially sections 2, 3 and 4 Chapter 5 all sections Chapter 6 all sections and finally, Chapter 7 especially related to Pilot Reports (PIREPS).This excellent resource is located in an appendix of the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM). If you have a request requiring a lengthier explanation, a good practice is to state who and where you are and then simply say: “I have a request.” Where you are - on the ground or in the air - using specific location information, preferably locations that are charted and known to ATC and other pilots.Who you are (i.e., aircraft type and tail number or call sign).Fess up!Īs a rule, each transmission should include: Honestly - Do not wait to ask ATC for help if you think you need it e.g., low on fuel, not sure of your present position or needing to divert due to weather.Succinctly – Your transmission should be to the point and not include extra or unnecessary information.Completely – Don’t force the controller to query you to understand all of what you should have told him in your initial transmission.Clearly – state your message and intentions so there is no misunderstanding about what you are saying.The goal of this article is to promote understanding within the pilot population as to the proper communications procedures and practices ATC expects pilots to use, as well as best practices for communicating with other pilots at non-towered airports.Ĭommunications with ATC should be stated: We will also include some traps to avoid and tips to help you when communicating with ATC. It is intended to cover important highlights and to summarize the basic communications procedures recommended by the FAA to facilitate the safe and orderly flow of air traffic to and from airports. This article is intended for pilots flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
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