How To Talk To Air Traffic Control | ATC Radio Basics for Pilots

Comments · 945

• JO

  @johnniess7914 · 5 years ago

  Whoever disliked this was on the wrong frequency

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• JA

  @jameshunley6801 · 4 years ago

  Air traffic controller here.  All information in this video is absolutely spot on.  I would highlight, if you are unfamiliar or unsure of what we want you to do, or even the layout of the airport, just let us know you are unfamiliar early in the transmission.  It will switch us from our normal traffic bearing mode to a more focused, almost nurturing mode.  Sometimes you will get controllers who will get frustrated.  Just do your best to understand and comply with their instructions while letting them know what you don't understand.  Also sticking to standard phraseology is best.  a lot of the time we don't have much time for pleasantries sadly.

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• SA

  @samtk5759 · 2 years ago

  ATC is like the doctors handwriting of speech lol

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• KS

  @Ks1268-d7x · 4 years ago

  It was amazing how much easier it gets after you get the first few mistakes out of the way and realize that it's OK. You start to realize how simple it is. The fear just comes from the pressure you put on yourself. This is good. It means you care, and will end up being a good pilot.

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• FO

  @ForOrAgainstUs · 1 year ago

  <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcAn_elsWG0&amp;t=595">9:55</a> &quot;You get the idea.&quot;<br><br>You must think very highly of me, young man. Kind words, very kind words indeed.

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• SH

  @sheath3941 · 4 years ago

  My lord, this comment section is purely positive vibes. After scrolling for a while, still haven&apos;t seen a single remotely negative comment. That&apos;s how I like to see it! But honestly, with a really good video like this it should be positive.

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• JE

  @Jeffrey-Flys · 5 years ago

  I like to say..<br> “Hey tower! Guess who… and you’re never gonna guess where I am.”

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• SA

  @SAviator93 · 3 years ago (edited)

  Air traffic controller here. In my training, I&apos;ve learned to know what I say before I speak up. That ensures there&apos;s no confusion on frequency and it helps pilots feel secure knowing their controller knows what he&apos;s doing. I think that&apos;s equally as important for pilots. While reading back initial instructions may be difficult for new pilots, know your intentions first, then call up. It&apos;ll help reduce congestion on frequency. Also, don&apos;t be too nervous and feel like ATC is going to attack you. I work in a very busy Delta. I&apos;d rather be asked to repeat my instructions than have someone readback blindly and cause a conflict. If you don&apos;t understand, just ask. Your safety is our job.<br><br>Great video!

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• JA

  @jannyplf · 1 year ago (edited)

  Good video. &nbsp;ATC here. Just one thing to add about words you should avoid using. It may seem strange but be careful with &apos;Take off&apos;. &nbsp;This is only used by ATC and pilots when issuing and confirming and actual clearance to takeoff. &nbsp;All other communication uses the word &apos;departure&apos;. &nbsp;You may notice this is done in this video- the pilot requests or, says he is ready, for departure. &nbsp;This is because on busy frequencies, things can be misheard and is simply a safety feature.

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• RO

  @rossdax47 · 5 years ago

  Not a pilot, not in training to be a pilot, but love the break down! Thanks for making it so simple! :)

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• MO

  @Mooney201er · 5 years ago

  Part 2: talking to ATC like a pro. Preface your initial contact with good morning, good afternoon, or good evening. It shows them you are on your game and know what time of day it is.

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• YE

  @yelssinlomeli3460 · 6 months ago

  <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcAn_elsWG0&amp;t=7">0:07</a> always imagined the commercial pilots just yelling I’m a Boeing !

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