Part 1: Radio Direction Finding – The Foundation

When you request a bearing, use standard phraseology. The procedure word REQUEST is always used, followed by the type of bearing you want. Here are the correct phrases:

"REQUEST QDM to [station name]" — when you want to navigate toward the station. "REQUEST QDR from [station name]" — when you want to confirm your position as you fly away. "REQUEST QTE to [station name]" — rarely used in VFR, but correct if you need true bearing.

Never say "request a bearing." Specify which type. The station's operator needs to know what you're asking for because they might measure it differently or present it differently depending on the Q-group.

The station will respond with the bearing. They might say: "Your QDM is two-seven-zero" — give the full 3-digit bearing using proper number pronunciation.

You must READBACK the bearing to confirm you heard it correctly: "QDM two-seven-zero, OE-FDC" — repeat the Q-group and the bearing, then your callsign.

Why the readback? Because a wrong bearing—say, hearing 270 when they said 370 (unlikely but possible), or getting 280 instead of 290—can put you miles off course. The readback ensures accuracy.

[Notepad Hint for VDF Requests] When requesting a bearing, write down: