Push-to-Talk (PTT)

Push-to-Talk (PTT) refers to the function of activating the aircraft radio transmitter by pressing and holding a button during voice communication. PTT ensures that only one party transmits at a time on a given frequency, maintaining clarity, control, and order in aviation radiotelephony.
PTT is typically activated using a yoke- or stick-mounted switch, a panel-mounted button, or a handheld microphone.

• Allow the pilot to control when they transmit on the radio
• Prevent simultaneous transmissions that cause interference ("blocking")
• Enforce concise, intentional communication
• Maintain radio discipline and reduce congestion on busy frequencies

• Pilot presses and holds the PTT switch to transmit
• While the switch is held, the microphone is live, and ATC or other aircraft can hear
• Upon release, the system returns to receive mode, allowing incoming messages
• Only one transmission can be clearly received per frequency at a time

• ✅ Plan what to say before pressing
• ✅ Press–pause–speak: wait half a second after pressing before speaking
• ✅ Speak clearly and steadily
• ✅ Release button after speaking to hear reply
• ❌ Don’t press the button while thinking or hesitating
• ❌ Avoid long transmissions or overlapping calls

Press PTT: “Salzburg Tower, OE-XYZ, ready for departure runway 15.”
Release PTT
Wait for response before pressing again

If two aircraft transmit simultaneously, ATC may hear a garbled or unreadable message, known as blocking. This usually results in:

• “Two aircraft transmitting simultaneously, say again.”
• Pilots must pause and repeat their message individually.

In urgent situations, concise use of PTT is critical:

“Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, engine failure, OE-ABC, 5 miles west of LOAV.”

Don’t hold the button for extended explanations — keep it clear and short.

• Practice smooth, confident use during LearnATC simulations
• Always check mic and PTT function during preflight
• Avoid “hot mic” errors by releasing the button after speaking
• Stay silent unless necessary — the airwaves are shared