Communications (VFR and Radiotelephony)
Communications
This domain tests standard VFR radiotelephony, readback, position reporting, distress and urgency calls, and SSR use. The exam expects concise, standard phraseology and correct prioritisation of transmissions.
Core rules
- Use the aircraft callsign, station called and standard phrases. Read back clearances, runway instructions, altimeter settings and hold instructions.
- Distress: MAYDAY, three times, callsign, position, nature of distress, intentions and persons on board.
- Urgency: PAN PAN, three times, for urgent but non-distress situations.
- Position reports include callsign, position, altitude, next position and ETA.
- 'Take-off' is used only when clearance is given; otherwise say 'departure' or 'airborne'.
Worked example
Engine failure over open country: 'Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, 5Y-ABC, Cessna 172, 20 nautical miles west of Wilson, engine failure, forced landing, two persons on board.' The reasoning is that MAYDAY alerts immediate distress, and the call gives position, problem, intention and POB in a fixed order.
Traps
'Roger' acknowledges receipt but is not a readback. Do not use PAN PAN for a distress call. Do not omit the callsign. Do not use 'take-off' casually. Keep transmissions short and standard.