Radio contact

Radio contact is a working two way communication link between an aircraft station and a ground station or another aircraft. It is established with an initial call on the correct frequency and exists only when both sides can transmit and receive satisfactorily. In practice, contact quality depends mainly on frequency, height, distance, terrain and equipment serviceability. The pilot selects the correct frequency, listens first, makes a clear initial call, and if contact is weak or lost checks volume, squelch, frequency, microphone use and an alternative station or frequency.