How do you first contact with ATC?

Establishing Initial Contact with Air Traffic Control (ATC)

When operating in controlled airspace, pilots must establish communication with ATC for safety and efficient coordination. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to initiate contact with ATC:

Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Frequency

Tune your aircraft radio to the designated frequency for the airspace you are entering. Contact frequencies can be found on aeronautical charts, NOTAMs, or ATIS broadcasts.

Step 2: Key the Microphone

Once you have the correct frequency, press the microphone button on your control yoke or panel.

Step 3: Identify Yourself

State the callsign of your aircraft. This is the unique identifier assigned to your plane by the aviation authorities.

Step 4: State Your Flight Plan Type

Indicate whether you are operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or Visual Flight Rules (VFR). IFR indicates you will be flying using instruments and ATC clearances, while VFR means you will rely on visual references for navigation.

Step 5: Provide Supplementary Information

To facilitate a comprehensive briefing, consider providing additional information:

• Departure and Destination Airports: State the airports you are departing from and where you are going.
• Aircraft Type: Identify the type of aircraft you are flying, such as Cessna 172 or Boeing 737.
• Estimated Departure Time: Indicate your planned time of departure.
• Anticipated Flight Duration: Estimate the total time you expect to be in the air.

Example of Initial Contact

Pilot: “Atlanta Approach, Cessna 172 November Alpha, VFR, departing from Peachtree-DeKalb Airport, destination Savannah Airport, estimated departure 1000 Zulu, flight duration 90 minutes.”

ATC: “Cessna November Alpha, Atlanta Approach, roger, squawk 1200. Radar contact.”

Additional Tips

• Use clear and concise language.
• Speak at a moderate pace, allowing ATC time to process your request.
• Be respectful and cooperative.
• If your call is not immediately answered, be patient and retransmit your message at appropriate intervals.
• If you experience any difficulty establishing contact, switch to the alternate frequency provided by ATC.

Establishing initial contact with ATC is crucial for maintaining safety and efficient airspace management. By following these guidelines, you can ensure seamless communication and a safe and enjoyable flight experience.