Subchapter 9.1 – Communication Failure Under IFR

Example: Communication failure scenario

You are en route from Geneva to Zurich at Flight Level 150, having been assigned that altitude with a "climb to Flight Level 180 expected 15 minutes after departure." You are on radar vectors. Thirty minutes into flight, your radio ceases to transmit—you can hear ATC, but they cannot hear you.

Immediate actions:

Squawk 7600 on the transponder
Try alternate frequencies check headset, verify volume and squelch.
Maintain Flight Level 150 (your last assigned altitude).
Note the last heading ATC assigned (e.g., 090°) and fly it.
Determine your position using VOR and DME.
Continue toward Zurich, planning a descent to the initial approach altitude.
ATC radar will show your squawk 7600 and track your position. They will clear airspace ahead of you, expecting you to land at Zurich.
Execute the approach and land without further radio contact.

On the ground, immediately report the loss of communication to ATC, who will file an incident report.