Radio Procedures - Talking on Aviation Radio - Australian Unmanned Systems Academy

What to say…. And what to not say

When you are online gaming, what happens when you all get excited and start speaking at the same time? Do you understand what has been said all the time?

Is it effective? Would this be safe flying around the sky?

Would it be appropriate to say…

Hello Brisbane Tower I’m the aircraft turning onto final approach path to runway 19 Right, who will be requesting permission to land. Awaiting your response…

Or could this be said more succinctly?

Brisbane Tower, Alpha Bravo Charlie, Final 19 Right, Request landing clearance.

What to say…. Standard phrases

The primary purpose is:

Reduce the possibility of a misunderstanding
Reduce the number of words spoken
Reduce the time on the radio

Here’s a start with some common types of phrases:

Affirm: YES (was once Affirmative, but with a clipped transmission there was confusion between affirmative and negative)
Negative: NO
Roger: I have received all of your last transmission
Wilco: Understand all of your message and will comply with it
Maintain: Continue in accordance with the procedures specified or in its literal sense (e.g. maintain VFR or 300ft)
Correction: An error has been made in this transmission. The correct version is…
Standby: Wait and I will call you
Acknowledge: Let me know that you have received and understood the message
Cleared: Authorised to proceed under the conditions specified

Remember communication and its how you say it that counts. Please note ‘over’ and ‘out’ rarely if ever used with VHF (used for UHF/ CB).

For further information, check the following link:

https://vfrg.casa.gov.au/general/radio-telephony-procedures/words-and-phrases/

Let’s Practice Radio Calls

Try to match the correct word for the following examples:

ATC: Alpha Bravo Charlie _____ to Take off.