An Introduction to Aviation Radio
Communications
Effective two-way radio communications are essential to safety and in complying with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). Unfortunately, there are a lot of self imposed barriers to radio communication.
When talking to Air Traffic Control (ATC), there are essentially only four (4) pieces of information that he or she wants from you. Supply all four pieces of information in the correct order and half of your job is done. These four issues are:
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1. |
Who you are calling. |
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2. |
Who you are. |
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3. |
Where you are (position & altitude). |
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4. |
What you want. |
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Example Scenario: |
You have just taken off from Runway 26 at Pennridge (N70) with a straight out departure and want to go to Allentown International (ABE). |
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Who do you contact? |
Allentown approach (on the appropriate frequency) |
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What do you say? |
"Allentown Approach, Cessna 12649, 3,000 feet over Quakertown,
landing Allentown, Information Charlie" |
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Note: |
Notice that we have included all four points with as few words as possible. Information Charlie refers to ATIS Charlie. During busy times, a pilot may elect to break this communication into two steps, i.e. above points 1-3, then you wait for ATC’s response before you proceed to point 4. |
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A few final thoughts: |
Think about what you are going to say before you begin your transmission. You might even make up a script before you leave the ground. |
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Have a clipboard or kneeboard with pencil & paper at your disposal. Write down ATIS information, frequencies and Transponder Codes that ATC assigns. Listening & understanding is the other half of good radio communication. |
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Role-play. Get a fellow student or instructor to spontaneously play the role of ATC in a simulated series of radio communications. An understanding spouse can be very helpful. |
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