Key Takeaways

Squawk 7600 immediately when you lose radio communications. This is your only voice to ATC
Fly the highest of Assigned, Vectored, Expected, or Filed altitude under communication loss to maintain maximum separation.
Declare MAYDAY for immediate life-threatening danger; declare PAN-PAN for serious but non-life-threatening situations. Use the correct word.
TCAS Resolution Advisories override ATC instructions. Execute the RA, then inform ATC.
Declare minimum fuel if your remaining fuel leaves no margin for delays or diversions. ATC will prioritize your landing.
You have authority to deviate from your clearance /strong> for weather or safety. Inform ATC as soon as possible and resume your cleared route when able.

Report PIREPs and bird activity to contribute to the safety database for all pilots.

Aviate, navigate, communicate—in that order. Under stress, prioritize flying the aircraft first.