Communications (VFR and IFR)
Clear, concise, standard
Candidates must understand standard radiotelephony phraseology, the structure of a call (station addressed, aircraft identification, position, time, altitude, next position and ETA), and the read-back requirement for clearances. Learn the use of the phonetic alphabet, numbers and the standard words (roger, wilco, affirm, negative, standby, request). Understand the distress and urgency frequencies, the emergency procedures, and the difference between VFR and IFR communications. Also learn the rules for position reports and the use of the transponder.
Traps in questions
A common trap is failing to read back a clearance that contains a level or a route instruction. Another is using non-standard phraseology, or confusing "roger" with "wilco". Questions also test the correct frequency for distress and the procedure when radio contact is lost.
Worked example
"ATC clears you to climb to FL180 and report reaching. What must you read back?" Answer: the level and the report instruction - "Climbing to FL180, will report reaching." Rule of thumb: if it contains a number, read it back.
Key points
- Read back clearances containing levels, routes or instructions.
- Roger means received; wilco means will comply.
- Use standard phraseology and the phonetic alphabet.
- Know the distress and urgency frequencies.
- Have a lost-communication procedure ready.