Radio Calls
Big Idea
Pilots talk on the radio to tell other airplanes where they are. At small airports, you announce your own position.
Fun Fact
The first word of every radio call at an uncontrolled airport is the airport name. The last word is also the airport name!
What You Will Learn
- Know the CTAF frequency (the shared radio channel)
- Announce your position on each leg of the pattern
- Include: airport name, your callsign, position, intentions, airport name
- Listen for other traffic before transmitting
Simulator Steps
- Tune the CTAF frequency (instructor helps)
- Before takeoff: "Frederick traffic, Cherokee One-Zero-Six-Sierra-Tango, departing runway three-zero, Frederick."
- On crosswind: announce "left crosswind"
- On downwind: announce "left downwind, touch-and-go"
- On final: announce "final runway three-zero, touch-and-go"
What You Learned
- Always say the airport name first and last
- Include your position and what you plan to do
- Listen before you talk