Communications
VFR and Radiotelephony
Master standard phraseology for VFR flights. Know how to make initial calls, position reports, and emergency communications. Understand the phonetic alphabet and standard readback procedures.
Radio Procedures
Know the frequencies: ground, tower, approach, and emergency (121.5). Understand the use of transponder and squawk codes. Practice listening to live ATC or recordings.
Traps
Questions often test the correct phraseology: "Say again" vs "Repeat". "Repeat" is for artillery, so use "Say again". Also, know the priority of communications: distress, urgency, safety.
Worked Example
When calling tower for takeoff, include: aircraft identification, position, request. Example: "Tower, Cessna 12345, holding short runway 18, ready for departure."
Rule of Thumb
Use the "4 Ws": Who you are, Where you are, What you want, and Wait for response. For emergency: "Mayday, Mayday, Mayday" followed by callsign and nature of emergency.