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HK PPL Radiotelephony study materials
HK PPL Radiotelephony study resources

HK PPL Radiotelephony practice questions

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Question 1Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

On first contact with Hong Kong Approach, which element should a VFR pilot normally state immediately after the aircraft type?

  1. Requested cruising level
  2. Destination aerodrome and endurance
  3. Position and altitude
  4. Aircraft registration Correct answer.

Explanation

The standard initial call to an ATC unit gives the unit name, the aircraft callsign, then the type, position and altitude, and finally the request or intentions. The registration is the callsign itself, so it is spoken immediately after the type. Putting destination or requested level before position deprives the controller of the information needed to identify you on radar.

Question 2Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller transmits "GABCD, squawk 7040". What is the pilot's correct readback?

  1. "Roger, GABCD"
  2. "Squawking 7040, GABCD"
  3. "Squawk 7040, GABCD" Correct answer.
  4. "Squawk 7040, wilco, GABCD"

Explanation

Squawk allocations are safety-related and must be read back in full, using the word "squawk" followed by the four digits. The callsign is appended at the end of the readback. Saying "squawking" implies the action is already complete, which is not the correct acknowledgment of an instruction.

Question 3Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

Which phraseology does a pilot use to report that an instruction or clearance has been understood and will be complied with?

  1. Roger
  2. Say again
  3. Wilco Correct answer.
  4. Affirm

Explanation

"Wilco" means "I understand your message and will comply with it", and it already contains the meaning of "Roger". "Roger" only confirms receipt of the message, without committing to action. "Affirm" answers a question in the affirmative rather than accepting an instruction.

Question 4Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

An aircraft is instructed to "hold short of runway 07". What does this instruction require?

  1. Vacate runway 07 at the next exit
  2. Line up on runway 07 and wait for take-off clearance
  3. Stop at the holding point and wait for further clearance before entering the runway Correct answer.
  4. Continue taxiing across runway 07 without delay

Explanation

"Hold short of runway 07" means the aircraft must stop at the designated holding position and must not enter the runway strip until a specific clearance is issued. It is not a clearance to line up or cross. The instruction is a runway incursion barrier, so it is read back in full.

Question 5Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

What does the word "standby" mean when transmitted by ATC?

  1. Change to another frequency
  2. Wait and I will call you Correct answer.
  3. Cleared as requested
  4. Repeat your last transmission

Explanation

"Standby" tells the pilot that the controller will call back and that no action or repeat transmission is required in the meantime. It is not an approval and must never be taken as a clearance. The pilot should remain on frequency and wait.

Question 6Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

How should a pilot read back the level instruction "descend to 2 500 feet"?

  1. "Descending 2 500 feet"
  2. "To 2 500 feet"
  3. "Descend 2 500 feet" Correct answer.
  4. "Roger, 2 500 feet"

Explanation

Level instructions are read back using the verb of the instruction followed by the level, so "descend 2 500 feet" confirms the clearance accurately. Altitudes are spoken as separate digits with "feet" omitted only where the unit has stated otherwise. "Descending" would report an action rather than acknowledge the clearance.

Question 7Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

Which transmission correctly requests a repeat of a message?

  1. "GABCD, request clarification of intentions"
  2. "GABCD, confirm"
  3. "GABCD, standby"
  4. "GABCD, say again" Correct answer.

Explanation

"Say again" is the standard phrase for asking that a transmission be repeated, and it should be preceded by the callsign. "Confirm" asks for verification of a specific item rather than a repeat. "Standby" tells the other station to wait, which is the opposite of what is wanted.

Question 8Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot on the ground at Hong Kong is cleared to "taxi to holding point runway 07 via taxiway B". Which instruction is implied?

  1. Follow taxiway B to the holding point and stop there Correct answer.
  2. Hold position on taxiway B indefinitely
  3. Enter runway 07 and backtrack
  4. Cross runway 07 if it lies on taxiway B

Explanation

A taxi clearance to a holding point authorises movement along the specified route only, ending at the holding position for the named runway. It never includes a runway crossing or entry. Any crossing must be separately cleared by the controller.

Question 9Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

Departing VFR from an aerodrome in Class C airspace, when should the pilot first establish radio contact with the controlling unit?

  1. After passing the aerodrome boundary outbound
  2. Only after reaching the cruising level
  3. Before entering the airspace or as instructed in the departure clearance Correct answer.
  4. When the controller calls first

Explanation

In controlled airspace a clearance and two-way radio contact are required before entry, and departure clearances normally specify when to contact the next unit. The pilot must not wait for the controller to initiate contact. Remaining on the tower frequency beyond the clearance limit is a common cause of airspace infringements.

Question 10Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot receives "GABCD, traffic 2 o'clock, 3 miles, opposite direction, a Cessna 172". What does the clock reference describe?

  1. The distance of the traffic in nautical miles
  2. The time at which the traffic will pass
  3. The bearing of the traffic relative to the aircraft's heading Correct answer.
  4. The relative altitude of the traffic

Explanation

Clock references describe relative bearing from the nose of the aircraft, so 2 o'clock is approximately 60 degrees to the right of heading. Distance and altitude are given separately in the same call. The pilot must scan accordingly and report the traffic in sight or not in sight.

Question 11Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

When a controller issues a clearance containing a route that the pilot cannot accept, what is the correct response?

  1. Read back only the parts that can be accepted
  2. Say "unable" and state the reason Correct answer.
  3. Read back the clearance as given and query it later
  4. Remain silent until the controller repeats

Explanation

If a clearance cannot be complied with, the pilot must say "unable" and give the reason so the controller can issue an alternative. Silent acceptance or partial readback leaves the controller with a false picture of the aircraft's intentions. A clearance is only valid once it has been correctly read back.

Question 12Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

What is the correct phraseology for a pilot reporting established on final approach for runway 25?

  1. "GABCD, on final approach runway 25"
  2. "GABCD, established runway 25"
  3. "GABCD, inbound runway 25"
  4. "GABCD, final runway 25" Correct answer.

Explanation

The concise standard report is the callsign followed by "final" and the runway designator. It tells the tower the aircraft is on final and will shortly be landing. Longer paraphrases are unnecessary and add frequency congestion.

Question 13Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

An aircraft is instructed "GABCD, line up and wait runway 07". What may the pilot do?

  1. Backtrack runway 07 and vacate at the far end
  2. Begin the take-off roll immediately
  3. Hold short of runway 07 until further advised
  4. Enter runway 07 and position for take-off, then wait Correct answer.

Explanation

"Line up and wait" authorises entry onto the runway and positioning for departure, but not the take-off itself. Take-off clearance must still be issued separately. The instruction is read back in full because it involves runway entry.

Question 14Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot's transmission is garbled and the controller replies "GABCD, readability 2". What does this indicate?

  1. The aircraft is transmitting on the wrong frequency
  2. The aircraft should change to the emergency frequency
  3. The signal is unreadable and a repeat with improved technique is needed Correct answer.
  4. The signal is perfectly readable

Explanation

Readability is reported on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is unreadable and 5 is perfectly readable. A report of 2 means the transmission is barely readable and the pilot should repeat, speaking clearly and checking the microphone and headset. It is not a frequency instruction.

Question 15Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

Which call correctly informs ATC that the aircraft has vacated the runway after landing?

  1. "GABCD, off the runway"
  2. "GABCD, landing complete"
  3. "GABCD, clear of the runway"
  4. "GABCD, runway vacated" Correct answer.

Explanation

The standard phrase is "runway vacated", which tells the tower that the aircraft is completely clear of the runway strip and the runway is available for the next movement. Non-standard paraphrases risk being misunderstood and delay the next departure or arrival.

Question 16Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

On approach, a controller says "GABCD, descend to 3 000 feet, QNH 1013". How should the pilot read back?

  1. "Descend 3 000 feet, QNH 1013, GABCD" Correct answer.
  2. "QNH 1013, GABCD"
  3. "Descend 3 000 feet, GABCD"
  4. "Descending 3 000 feet, QNH 1013, GABCD"

Explanation

Both the level instruction and the altimeter setting must be read back, since the QNH directly affects the altitude flown. The readback uses the imperative form of the instruction rather than reporting the action. Omitting the QNH leaves the controller unsure whether the correct pressure has been set.

Question 17Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot wishes to leave the frequency temporarily to contact another unit. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Request frequency change and wait for approval before leaving the frequency Correct answer.
  2. Leave the frequency and return when convenient
  3. Switch to 121.5 and monitor both frequencies
  4. Ask the controller to relay the message instead

Explanation

A pilot must obtain approval before leaving a controlled frequency, because the controller relies on being able to contact the aircraft. Unauthorised leaving of frequency can be treated as a communication failure. The correct request is to ask for a frequency change and await the instruction.

Question 18Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

When must a pilot read back a clearance that includes an altitude restriction such as "climb to 4 000 feet, maintain 4 000 feet until advised"?

  1. Only when flying IFR
  2. Always, in full, including the restriction Correct answer.
  3. Only when the restriction is above 5 000 feet
  4. Only if the controller requests it

Explanation

Altitude clearances and level restrictions are safety-critical and must always be read back in full, regardless of flight rules or the height involved. The readback confirms the level and any limitation attached to it. Partial readback can lead to a level bust.

Question 19Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is instructed "GABCD, report downwind runway 25". What is required?

  1. Call the tower when established on the downwind leg for runway 25 Correct answer.
  2. Call the tower only after turning base
  3. Call the tower when ready for take-off
  4. Call the tower before turning downwind

Explanation

A report instruction requires the pilot to transmit the specified report at the specified point, here when established on downwind for runway 25. The controller uses the report to sequence traffic and plan clearances. Calling earlier or later disrupts that sequencing.

Question 20Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

Which phraseology correctly advises ATC that the aircraft is going around from final approach?

  1. "GABCD, cancelled approach"
  2. "GABCD, going around" Correct answer.
  3. "GABCD, overshoot"
  4. "GABCD, discontinue approach"

Explanation

"Going around" is the standard phrase to announce that the approach is being abandoned and a circuit will be flown, and the controller then issues instructions accordingly. It is a safety-critical transmission because the runway and circuit may need to be protected for other traffic. The announcement should be made promptly without waiting to be asked.

Question 21Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller issues "GABCD, turn right heading 090, vector for sequencing". How is the heading read back?

  1. "Turn right 090, GABCD"
  2. "Right heading 090, GABCD" Correct answer.
  3. "Roger, GABCD"
  4. "Heading 090, GABCD"

Explanation

Heading instructions are read back using "heading" followed by the three digits, with the direction of turn included where given. The readback confirms the pilot has understood the turn direction and the assigned heading. "Roger" alone is insufficient for a heading clearance.

Question 22Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

An aircraft's radio fails completely in Class C airspace while VFR. What is the correct action?

  1. Continue the flight as cleared without any change
  2. Squawk 7600 and continue to destination
  3. Climb to the highest available level and orbit
  4. Remain outside or leave controlled airspace and land as soon as practicable Correct answer.

Explanation

A VFR flight cannot continue in controlled airspace without the required radio contact, so the pilot must remain clear of, or leave, that airspace and land as soon as practicable. Squawking 7600 is correct, but it does not authorise continuing the flight in airspace that requires a clearance. The aim is to minimise conflict with other traffic.

Question 23Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is cleared to enter the control zone but the controller then issues a crossing clearance for a runway that conflicts with the aircraft's position. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Hold position without transmitting until the controller notices
  2. Comply immediately because ATC has priority
  3. Read back the clearance and cross while monitoring the tower
  4. Query the clearance and state the conflict before complying Correct answer.

Explanation

When a clearance appears inconsistent with the aircraft's position or with a previous instruction, the pilot must query it and state the reason before acting. The pilot in command remains responsible for the safety of the flight, and ATC relies on the pilot to detect conflicts. Silence or blind compliance can lead to a runway incursion.

Question 24Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller transmits an instruction that is partly blocked by another transmission. What is the safest course of action?

  1. Request the entire instruction be repeated Correct answer.
  2. Assume the missing portion matches the flight plan
  3. Wait for the controller to repeat it spontaneously
  4. Act on the portion that was received clearly

Explanation

A clearance is only valid when received in full and read back correctly, so a partially received instruction must be repeated in its entirety. Acting on an assumed missing portion risks a level bust or runway incursion. The controller is responsible for repeating the whole message, not just the lost part.

Question 25Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

During a busy circuit, a pilot hears a clearance addressed to a similar callsign. What should the pilot do?

  1. Respond to the clearance if it seems reasonable
  2. Read back the clearance and clarify afterwards
  3. Respond only if the callsign is clearly the aircraft's own, otherwise query the controller Correct answer.
  4. Ignore all transmissions until the controller repeats the callsign

Explanation

Callsign confusion is a known cause of incidents, so a pilot should act only on clearances that are unambiguously addressed to that aircraft. If there is doubt, the pilot should query the controller rather than guess. Responding to another aircraft's clearance can cause two aircraft to act on the same instruction.

Question 26Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot transmits a position report and the controller replies "GABCD, say again your position". What is the pilot required to do?

  1. Request a new squawk code before replying
  2. Repeat the entire position report in full Correct answer.
  3. Advise the controller that the transmission was already sent
  4. Transmit only the aircraft callsign and wait

Explanation

"Say again" is the standard phraseology requesting repetition of all or part of a transmission. The pilot should repeat the position report, speaking clearly and using standard phraseology, because the controller did not receive it correctly. No new clearance or code is implied by the request.

Question 27Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot wants to confirm that a transmission was received and understood by the controller. Which phrase does the pilot use?

  1. Confirm Correct answer.
  2. Standby
  3. How do you read?
  4. Roger

Explanation

"Confirm" is used when the pilot wants verification that an element of a clearance or information has been correctly received and understood. "How do you read" asks about signal quality only, and "roger" merely acknowledges receipt without seeking confirmation.

Question 28Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller transmits "GABCD, squawk 5070". How should the pilot acknowledge this instruction?

  1. GABCD, squawk 5070 Correct answer.
  2. GABCD, roger, setting code
  3. GABCD, wilco, squawk set
  4. GABCD, affirm, squawk 5070

Explanation

SSR code instructions are safety-related and must be read back in full, including the callsign and the four digits. A simple "roger" or "wilco" does not confirm that the correct code was received. The read-back must reproduce the code exactly as issued.

Question 29Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

An aircraft is instructed "GABCD, hold position". What does this instruction require?

  1. Vacate the runway immediately
  2. Turn onto the nearest taxiway and stop there
  3. Continue taxiing slowly while awaiting further instructions
  4. Stop and remain at the present position until further advised Correct answer.

Explanation

"Hold position" instructs the aircraft to stop at its current location and remain there until the controller gives further instructions. It is distinct from "hold short", which relates to stopping before a runway or taxiway. The pilot should stop and not move without a further clearance.

Question 30Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot transmits "GABCD, request taxi". Which information should the pilot include to make the call complete at a controlled aerodrome?

  1. Aircraft type, position and intended destination or route Correct answer.
  2. The cruise altitude and endurance
  3. The pilot's licence number and name
  4. Only the aircraft callsign

Explanation

An initial taxi request should identify the aircraft, state its position on the aerodrome and give the intended destination or route so the controller can plan the taxi. Aircraft type helps the controller apply wake turbulence and taxiway restrictions. Callsign alone is insufficient for the controller to issue a taxi clearance.

Question 31Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller says "GABCD, roger". What does this indicate to the pilot?

  1. The controller has received the pilot's transmission Correct answer.
  2. The controller is unable to accept the transmission
  3. The controller requires the message to be repeated
  4. The controller has approved the pilot's request

Explanation

"Roger" is the standard acknowledgement that a transmission has been received and understood. It is not an approval, a clearance or a request for repetition. Pilots should not treat "roger" as authority to proceed with any requested action.

Question 32Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is asked to report when established on the ILS for runway 07. Which phraseology correctly reports this?

  1. GABCD, on approach runway 07
  2. GABCD, localiser alive runway 07
  3. GABCD, established on the ILS runway 07 Correct answer.
  4. GABCD, intercepting runway 07

Explanation

The standard report that the aircraft is established on the instrument approach uses the phrase "established", followed by the approach type and runway. "Localiser alive" and "intercepting" describe an earlier stage before the aircraft is fully established. "On approach" is too vague to satisfy the specific report requested.

Question 33Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot receives a clearance and wishes to indicate that it will be complied with. Which word is used?

  1. Roger
  2. Affirm
  3. Wilco Correct answer.
  4. Copy

Explanation

"Wilco" means "I understand your message and will comply with it". It is stronger than "roger", which only confirms receipt. "Affirm" answers a question in the affirmative, and "copy" is not standard ICAO phraseology for compliance.

Question 34Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is instructed "GABCD, after departure turn right heading 120, climb to 3 000 feet". Which elements must be read back?

  1. Neither; a simple roger is sufficient
  2. Only the heading
  3. Both the heading and the level Correct answer.
  4. Only the level

Explanation

Headings and levels in clearances are safety-critical and both must be read back in full. The read-back allows the controller to detect any misunderstanding before the aircraft manoeuvres. A simple acknowledgement does not confirm the values.

Question 35Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller issues "GABCD, cleared to enter the control zone, maintain 1 500 feet, VFR". The pilot reads back the clearance but the controller replies "GABCD, negative, maintain 2 000 feet". What should the pilot do?

  1. Request a new clearance from the approach unit
  2. Maintain 1 500 feet as first cleared
  3. Climb immediately without further transmission
  4. Read back the amended level of 2 000 feet and comply Correct answer.

Explanation

When a controller corrects an element of a clearance, the corrected instruction replaces the original and must itself be read back. The pilot should acknowledge the amended level and comply with it. Maintaining the original level would conflict with the controller's instruction.

Question 36Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot on final approach hears another aircraft given a landing clearance on the same runway. What should the pilot do before continuing the approach?

  1. Query the controller to confirm the landing clearance applies to the pilot's aircraft Correct answer.
  2. Switch to the tower frequency to ask for a clearance
  3. Go around immediately without advising ATC
  4. Continue the approach and land without further contact

Explanation

A pilot who hears a clearance that may not be addressed to them must not assume it applies. The correct action is to query the controller and obtain a clearance addressed to the correct callsign. This maintains runway safety and avoids a possible conflict.

Question 37Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is instructed "GABCD, report final runway 25". When should the report be made?

  1. When established on final approach to runway 25 Correct answer.
  2. When the aircraft is 10 miles from the threshold
  3. When turning onto the base leg
  4. When the landing gear is selected down

Explanation

A request to report final is satisfied when the aircraft is established on the final approach path for the specified runway. Reporting earlier, such as on base, does not meet the instruction. The report should include the callsign and the runway.

Question 38Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot's radio fails in Class C airspace while flying VFR. Which action is consistent with standard procedures?

  1. Leave controlled airspace by the shortest route and land at the nearest suitable aerodrome, reporting arrival Correct answer.
  2. Squawk 7600 and continue to the original destination regardless of traffic
  3. Circle overhead the last known position until intercepted
  4. Continue the flight as cleared and say nothing on return

Explanation

For a VFR flight in controlled airspace with a communications failure, the aircraft should leave controlled airspace by the shortest route and land at the nearest suitable aerodrome, then report its arrival to the appropriate unit. Squawking 7600 aids identification but does not replace this action. Continuing the original flight could conflict with other traffic.

Question 39Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot needs to leave the frequency briefly to obtain weather from another unit. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Switch frequency without advising anyone
  2. Ask the controller to pass the weather on the pilot's behalf
  3. Leave the frequency and return only when ready to land
  4. Advise the controller, request permission to leave the frequency and report when back on frequency Correct answer.

Explanation

Before leaving a controlled frequency the pilot should advise the controller, obtain agreement and state the intention to return. This allows the controller to plan traffic without the aircraft listening out. Leaving without notice is not acceptable in controlled airspace.

Question 40Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is asked to state altitude and replies "GABCD, 2 500 feet". How should the altitude be read back in standard phraseology?

  1. Two thousand five hundred feet Correct answer.
  2. Two point five thousand feet
  3. Two five hundred feet
  4. Twenty-five hundred feet

Explanation

Altitudes are transmitted using each digit group in full, so 2 500 feet is spoken as "two thousand five hundred feet". This avoids ambiguity with similar-sounding numbers. The callsign should also be included in the transmission.

Question 41Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A controller transmits "GABCD, descend to 2 000 feet, report leaving 3 000 feet". What does the controller require?

  1. A report when the aircraft begins the descent
  2. A report every 1 000 feet during the descent
  3. A report when the aircraft reaches 2 000 feet
  4. A report when the aircraft passes below 3 000 feet Correct answer.

Explanation

"Report leaving" a level means the pilot advises when the aircraft has passed that level, in this case leaving 3 000 feet. It is not the same as reporting reaching the assigned level. The report confirms to the controller that the descent has begun as cleared.

Question 42Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot receives a clearance that includes "cross ABC VOR at or above 5 000 feet". The aircraft is currently at 4 000 feet. What should the pilot do?

  1. Descend to remain clear of the restriction
  2. Cross the VOR at 5 000 feet only if traffic permits
  3. Maintain 4 000 feet and cross the VOR at that level
  4. Climb so as to cross the VOR at or above 5 000 feet and read back the restriction Correct answer.

Explanation

An "at or above" restriction is a minimum crossing altitude that must be met at the specified point. The pilot must climb to satisfy it and read back the restriction in full. The restriction is mandatory, not conditional on traffic.

Question 43Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is instructed "GABCD, turn left heading 270, vector for spacing". What is the correct read-back?

  1. GABCD, vector 270
  2. GABCD, heading 270, roger
  3. GABCD, left heading 270 Correct answer.
  4. GABCD, turning left, wilco

Explanation

A heading instruction is read back including the callsign, the turn direction and the heading value. This confirms that the pilot has understood both the direction and the number. Omitting the turn direction or the heading value weakens the read-back.

Question 44Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot wishes to enter the control zone but the controller replies "GABCD, standby". What should the pilot do?

  1. Change to another frequency to obtain a clearance
  2. Wait and remain on the frequency without taking further action Correct answer.
  3. Enter the control zone and advise when inside
  4. Repeat the request immediately

Explanation

"Standby" means the controller has received the request and will respond shortly; the pilot should wait and remain listening on the frequency. It is not a clearance and does not authorise entry into controlled airspace. Repeating the request or changing frequency would add to workload.

Question 45Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is cleared to land on runway 25 and then hears the controller issue a landing clearance to another aircraft on the same runway. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Continue and land as cleared
  2. Go around without advising ATC
  3. Slow down and wait for the other aircraft to land first
  4. Query the controller before continuing the approach Correct answer.

Explanation

If a pilot hears a clearance that appears to conflict with their own, they should query the controller rather than assume a misunderstanding. This allows the controller to resolve the situation before a runway conflict develops. Continuing to land or manoeuvring without advising ATC could be unsafe.

Question 46Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot's transmission is partially blocked by another aircraft and the controller's reply begins with a callsign similar to the pilot's own. What is the safest course of action?

  1. Assume the instruction is for this aircraft and comply
  2. Switch frequency and re-establish contact later
  3. Query the controller to confirm whether the instruction was intended for this aircraft Correct answer.
  4. Wait until the controller repeats the instruction without asking

Explanation

When reception is doubtful or a callsign is similar to another, the pilot must not act on an assumed clearance. The safe course is to query the controller and confirm the instruction before complying. Acting on an assumed clearance could lead to an altitude or heading deviation.

Question 47Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is cleared to enter the control zone at 1 500 feet but the controller then issues a crossing clearance for a runway that conflicts with the pilot's planned route. What should the pilot do?

  1. Accept the clearance and alter the route without advising ATC
  2. Ignore the crossing clearance and continue the planned route
  3. Read back the crossing clearance and advise if the route cannot be complied with Correct answer.
  4. Cancel the flight and leave the control zone immediately

Explanation

A pilot must read back a crossing clearance and, if it cannot be complied with, must advise the controller so the clearance can be amended. Ignoring the clearance or altering the route silently would leave the controller with an incorrect picture of the aircraft's intentions. Communication is the key to resolving a conflict.

Question 48Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot on the ground at a controlled aerodrome is instructed to "hold short of runway 07 at taxiway B". What does this require?

  1. Hold at the apron entrance until further advised
  2. Continue across the runway and hold on the far side
  3. Stop before the runway holding point at taxiway B and await further clearance Correct answer.
  4. Stop on the runway centreline at taxiway B

Explanation

"Hold short" instructs the aircraft to stop before the specified runway holding point and not to proceed onto the runway without a further clearance. It is distinct from "hold position", which stops the aircraft where it is. The pilot must read back the instruction and stop at the marked holding point.

Question 49Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot is instructed "GABCD, climb to 4 000 feet, maintain 4 000 feet". Why is the level repeated in this instruction?

  1. To emphasise that the level is a long-term assigned level that must be maintained until further advised Correct answer.
  2. To confirm that the aircraft may descend again shortly
  3. To show that the level applies only until the next waypoint
  4. To indicate that the climb should be made in two stages

Explanation

Repeating the level emphasises that it is the assigned level to be maintained until the controller issues a change. It is not a staged climb or a temporary level. The pilot reads back the level in full to confirm understanding.

Question 50Radiotelephony procedures and phraseology

A pilot on the ground at an uncontrolled aerodrome intends to depart and wishes to broadcast intentions to other traffic. Which transmission correctly follows the standard broadcast format for an aerodrome without an operating control tower?

  1. Brisbane Traffic, Golf Alpha Bravo Charlie Delta, on taxiway Alpha, departing runway 07 to the north, Brisbane Traffic. Correct answer.
  2. Golf Alpha Bravo Charlie Delta, Brisbane Ground, ready for departure runway 07, request taxi clearance.
  3. Brisbane Tower, Golf Alpha Bravo Charlie Delta, holding point runway 07, request line up and take-off.
  4. Golf Alpha Bravo Charlie Delta, requesting airways clearance to Alpha VOR, stand by for read-back.

Explanation

At an aerodrome without an operating control tower, transmissions are addressed to the aerodrome name (traffic), followed by the aircraft callsign, position and intentions, and closed with the aerodrome name. This lets other aircraft on frequency build a picture of where each aircraft is and what it intends. Calling a ground or tower unit that is not operating is pointless, and a broadcast never includes a request for a clearance from a nonexistent controller.