Radio Failure Procedures: Maintaining Safety Without Communication
If you can hear but cannot transmit, you will hear ATC calling you, and you will understand the situation, but you cannot respond. This is more challenging because ATC must be certain you have heard them and understand their instructions. ATC will typically issue instructions assuming you are listening:
ATC Instruction During Transmitter Failure
ATC: "OE-FGH, if you receive this transmission, squawk 7600 immediately"
They are watching for you to set the code. When you do, they will see it on radar and know you received the instruction. From that point, ATC will issue all further instructions as if you are receiving them, and they will see the results of your compliance on radar (you change heading, you descend, etc.).
Immediately set squawk 7600 to confirm receipt. Then:
- Continue on your last assigned heading and altitude. Do not make random deviations.
- Listen for ATC instructions. ATC will speak as if you can hear them. Follow what they say.
- Comply with instructions as evidenced by radar.
- Approach an aerodrome if you are able. If you are less than 50 miles from an aerodrome and you believe you can land safely, proceed toward it. The tower will see your radar target and issue light signals if needed.
