Communication Procedures

Radio Pre-flight

  1. Turn everything on (use to bottom flow pattern)
  2. Starting at audio selector panel
    1. Marker beacon lights
    2. Set speakers or headset for communication check
    3. Transmitter to comm. 1
  3. Comm 1 – – set volume
  4. Nav. – – tune in lcl frequency that you can receive on grad. (i.e. loc)
    1. Set volume
    2. Check identifier and omni for appropriate needle deflection
  5. Comm 2 – transmitter sw to comm. 2 and set volume
  6. Nav2 – – same as comm. 1
  7. ADF – – lcl freq.
    1. Tune and identify
    2. Set volume
    3. Check volume
    4. Check needle
    5. Set the timer
  8. Transponder – test and back to stby
  9. Go back and set in nav and comm. freqs.

Reports to review that must be made in a radar environment:

  1. all requested reports
  2. leaving assigned altitudes
  3. repeat “numbers” issued by ATC, such as frequencies, headings, and altitudes
  4. missed approach followed by intensions
  5. equipment malfunctions

General points to review:

The initial call for taxi and clearance should be clear, concise, and in the proper sequence

Example:

Who you’re talking to: Lafayette Ground
Who you are: Cessna 739KS
Where you are: Lafayette Aviation
What you want to do: Taxi with Bravo
IFR to Kokomo

When changing to any new frequency, regardless of whether you are speaking to the same facility or even the same controller, begin your transmission with a full call sign.

Example: “Cessna 739KS ______”. Abbreviated call signs may ONLY be utilized only when a controller indicates the abbreviation.

When changing to any new frequency enroute it is customary, for safety precautions, to report on frequency with your altitude.

Example:
“Cessna 739KS level 3,000” or “ Cessna 739KS out of 2 for 3”

Single digits spoken in reference to altitude are assumed to be thousands.

All transmitions should include a portion of the call sign as designated by each controller.
Example: “9KS right turn 090” or “right 090, 9KS”

All turns must be initiated upon receipt even if the controller continues to speak. Often an entire clearance will be issued after a heading change is specified, however, the aircraft should begin turning immediately upon request.