Communications


Q1: When should a pilot make use of blind transmissions? ^t90q1

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

A blind transmission is used when the pilot cannot receive responses (e.g., due to a faulty receiver) but has reason to believe the ground station can still hear the transmissions, allowing ATC to track the aircraft's position and intentions.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q2: What is the standard abbreviation for the term "abeam"? ^t90q2

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

ABM is the ICAO-standard abbreviation for "abeam," meaning a position at a right angle to the aircraft's track — directly to the side. This abbreviation appears in flight plans, ATC communications, and aeronautical charts.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

VFR stands for Visual Flight Rules, the regulatory framework under which pilots navigate by visual reference to the ground and other aircraft.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

OBST is the ICAO-standard abbreviation for obstacle, used in NOTAMs, aeronautical charts, and ATC communications.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

FIS stands for Flight Information Service — a service providing pilots with information useful for the safe and efficient conduct of flights, including weather updates, NOTAMs, and traffic advisories.

Q6: What does the abbreviation "FIR" represent? ^t90q6

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

A Flight Information Region (FIR) is a defined volume of airspace within which flight information service and alerting service are provided under ICAO standards. Each country or group of countries has one or more FIRs covering all airspace vertically and horizontally.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

H24 indicates continuous 24-hour service — the facility is staffed and operational at all times. This designation appears in AIP entries and NOTAMs for facilities like major ATC centres.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

HX means the facility operates at no specific or predetermined hours and may be available on request or intermittently. Pilots must check NOTAMs or contact the facility to verify availability.

Q9: To which value must the altimeter be set so that it reads zero on the ground? ^t90q9

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

QFE is the atmospheric pressure at aerodrome elevation. When set on the altimeter subscale, the instrument reads zero on the ground at that aerodrome, displaying height above field during the circuit.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

QNH is the altimeter setting that, when dialled in, causes the altimeter to indicate altitude above mean sea level (AMSL), which is the standard reference for navigation and airspace limits below the transition altitude.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

With QFE set, the altimeter reads height above the reference aerodrome — the difference between actual pressure altitude and the aerodrome pressure level, showing zero on the ground and direct height above field in the circuit.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

ATC messages — including clearances, instructions, position reports, and traffic information — are classified as flight safety messages, the third-highest priority after distress and urgency in the ICAO message hierarchy.

ICAO Message Priority Order (highest to lowest):

| Priority | Category | Signal | Example | |---|---|---|---| | 1 | Distress | MAYDAY | Engine failure, fire | | 2 | Urgency | PAN PAN | Low fuel, passenger illness | | 3 | Flight safety | — | ATC clearances, instructions | | 4 | Meteorological | — | Weather reports, SIGMET | | 5 | Flight regularity | — | Schedule changes, ops info |

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

A distress message (MAYDAY) is transmitted when an aircraft and its occupants face a grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance — the highest priority category in aeronautical communications, signalled by transponder code 7700.

Q14: How are urgency messages defined? ^t90q14

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Urgency messages (PAN PAN) concern a condition that is serious and affects the safety of the aircraft or persons but does not yet constitute a grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance — examples include controllable engine problems or medical situations on board.

Q15: How are regularity messages defined? ^t90q15

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Regularity messages relate to the operation and maintenance of facilities necessary for flight operations — essentially administrative and logistical communications with the lowest priority in the ICAO hierarchy.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q16: Among the following messages, which one has the highest priority? ^t90q16

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

A request for QDM (magnetic heading to steer toward a station) implies the pilot may be lost or unable to navigate independently, making it a potential urgency or flight safety matter with higher priority than routine operational messages.

ICAO Message Priority Order (highest to lowest):

| Priority | Category | Signal | Example | |---|---|---|---| | 1 | Distress | MAYDAY | Engine failure, fire | | 2 | Urgency | PAN PAN | Low fuel, passenger illness | | 3 | Flight safety | — | ATC clearances, instructions | | 4 | Meteorological | — | Weather reports, SIGMET | | 5 | Flight regularity | — | Schedule changes, ops info |

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Using the ICAO phonetic alphabet: H = Hotel, B = Bravo, Y = Yankee, K = Kilo, M = Mike.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Using the ICAO phonetic alphabet: O = Oscar, E = Echo, J = Juliett, V = Victor, K = Kilo.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

ICAO phraseology for altitudes uses "thousand" and "hundred" where appropriate: 4500 ft is spoken as "four thousand five hundred.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Headings and bearings are always transmitted as three individual digits spoken separately: "two eight five." The words "hundred" are never used for headings because digit-by-digit transmission eliminates ambiguity.

Key Terms

D — Drag ### Q21: How is a frequency of 119.500 MHz correctly transmitted? ^t90q21

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Frequencies are transmitted digit by digit with "decimal" for the decimal point, and trailing zeros after significant digits are dropped. 119.500 MHz becomes "one one niner decimal five." Note "niner" is used for 9 to prevent confusion with "nein" (no).

Q22: How is the directional information "12 o'clock" correctly transmitted? ^t90q22

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Clock positions for traffic advisories are spoken as the full number followed by "o'clock": "twelve o'clock" means directly ahead.

Q23: In what time format are times transmitted in aviation? ^t90q23

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

All aeronautical communications use Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), formerly known as GMT or Zulu time, ensuring consistency across time zones worldwide. Pilots must convert local time to UTC for all flight plans, ATC communications, and weather reports.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q24: When there is doubt about ambiguity, how should a time of 1620 be transmitted? ^t90q24

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

When there is any risk of ambiguity, ICAO requires the full four-digit UTC time spoken as individual digits: "one six two zero." This eliminates confusion about whether minutes alone or the complete time is being given.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q25: What does the phrase "Roger" mean? ^t90q25

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"Roger" is an acknowledgement of receipt only — it means "I have received all of your last transmission" and nothing more. It does not imply agreement, compliance, or permission.

Q26: What does the phrase "Correction" mean? ^t90q26

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

"Correction" signals that the speaker has made an error in the current transmission and the correct information follows immediately. This prevents the receiving party from acting on faulty data.

Q27: What does the phrase "Approved" mean? ^t90q27

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

"Approved" means that ATC has granted permission for the action the pilot proposed or requested. It is used specifically in response to pilot requests.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q28: Which phrase does a pilot use to check the readability of their transmission? ^t90q28

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"How do you read?" is the standard ICAO phrase requesting a readability check. The expected response uses the 1-to-5 scale (e.g., "I read you five").

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q29: Which phrase does a pilot use when requesting to fly through controlled airspace? ^t90q29

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"Request" is the standard ICAO phraseology for asking ATC for a clearance, service, or permission — for example, "Request transit controlled airspace.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Affirm" is the ICAO-standard word for "yes" in civil aviation radiotelephony.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q31: What phrase does a pilot use when a transmission is to be answered with "no"? ^t90q31

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Negative" is the standard ICAO phraseology for "no" or "that is not correct," chosen for its unambiguous clarity across languages and radio conditions.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q32: Which phrase should a pilot use to inform the tower that they are ready for take-off? ^t90q32

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"Ready for departure" is the correct standard phrase at the holding point. Importantly, the word "take-off" is reserved exclusively for the actual clearance ("Cleared for take-off") or its cancellation, to prevent premature action on a misheard word.

Q33: What phrase does a pilot use to inform the tower about a go-around? ^t90q33

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Going around" is the standard ICAO phrase for discontinuing an approach and initiating a missed approach procedure. It must be transmitted immediately upon the decision.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q34: What is the call sign suffix of the aerodrome control unit? ^t90q34

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

The aerodrome control unit uses the call sign suffix "Tower" (e.g., "Dusseldorf Tower"), responsible for aircraft on the runway and in the circuit.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q35: What is the call sign suffix of the surface movement control unit? ^t90q35

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Surface movement control uses the suffix "Ground" (e.g., "Frankfurt Ground"), handling aircraft and vehicles on taxiways and aprons.

Q36: What is the call sign suffix of the flight information service? ^t90q36

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

FIS units use the suffix "Information" (e.g., "Langen Information" or "Scottish Information"), providing traffic advisories and weather information to VFR pilots.

Key Terms

VFR = Visual Flight Rules ### Q37: What is the correct abbreviated form of the call sign D-EAZF? ^t90q37

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

ICAO abbreviation rules for five-character call signs retain the first character (nationality prefix D) plus the last two characters (ZF): D-EAZF becomes D-ZF, spoken "Delta Zulu Foxtrot.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

A pilot may only use the abbreviated call sign after the ground station has used it first, ensuring positive identification has been established.

Q39: How should the aircraft call sign be used at first contact? ^t90q39

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

At first contact with any ATC unit, the full aircraft call sign must be used (e.g., "Delta Echo Alfa Zulu Foxtrot") so the controller can positively identify the aircraft.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

The standard format for initial radio contact is: station called first, then own call sign — "Dusseldorf Tower, Delta Echo Alfa Zulu Foxtrot.

Q41: What does readability 1 indicate? ^t90q41

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

On the ICAO readability scale (1 to 5), readability 1 means the transmission is completely unreadable — no useful information can be extracted.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q42: What does readability 2 indicate? ^t90q42

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

Readability 2 means the transmission is only intermittently intelligible — parts come through but the listener cannot reliably understand the full message.

Q43: What does readability 3 indicate? ^t90q43

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

Readability 3 means the transmission is intelligible but requires effort and concentration from the listener, with some words unclear.

Q44: What does readability 5 indicate? ^t90q44

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Readability 5 is the highest quality on the ICAO scale — the transmission is perfectly clear and intelligible with no difficulty.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q45: Which piece of information from a ground station does not require readback? ^t90q45

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

Wind information is advisory and acknowledged with "Roger" — no readback is required. Items requiring mandatory readback include: ATC clearances, runway in use, altimeter settings, SSR codes, level instructions, and heading and speed instructions.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q46: Which piece of information from a ground station does not require readback? ^t90q46

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

Traffic information (e.g., "traffic at your two o'clock, one thousand above") is acknowledged with "Roger" or "Traffic in sight" and does not require formal readback.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization

Q47: How should the instruction "DZF after lift-off climb straight ahead until 2500 feet before turning right heading 220 degrees, wind 090 degrees, 5 knots, runway 12, cleared for take-off" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q47

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

The readback must include all safety-critical items: departure instructions (climb straight ahead to 2500 ft, then turn right heading 220), the runway designator (runway 12), and the take-off clearance. Wind information does not require readback and is correctly omitted in option C.

Q48: How should the instruction "Next report PAH" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q48

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Wilco" (will comply) is the correct response to an instruction requiring future action — the pilot acknowledges receipt and confirms they will report at waypoint PAH.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q49: How should the instruction "Squawk 4321, Call Bremen Radar on 131.325" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q49

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Both the transponder code and the frequency change are safety-critical items requiring readback. The correct acknowledgement reads back the squawk code (4321) and the new frequency (131.325) to confirm correct receipt.

Q50: How should "You are now entering airspace Delta" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q50

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"You are now entering airspace Delta" is an informational statement from ATC, not an instruction requiring compliance. "Roger" (message received) is the correct and sufficient response.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q51: A pilot transmits the following to ATC: "We are landing at 10:45. Please order us a taxi." What type of message is this? ^t90q51

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

ATC frequencies are reserved exclusively for aeronautical communications related to flight safety, urgency, and operational matters. Ordering a ground taxi is a personal service request that has no place on an aviation frequency — it is therefore an inadmissible message.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q52: You are flying VFR and have received ATC clearance to enter Class C airspace to land. Shortly after entering, your radio fails. What do you do if no other special provisions apply? ^t90q52

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

For VFR flights, radio communication is mandatory in Class C airspace. When radio fails, the previous clearance is insufficient — the pilot must squawk 7600 (radio failure), leave the controlled airspace by the shortest route, and land at the nearest suitable aerodrome.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

VOLMET is the continuous radio broadcast service providing METARs and TAFs for a series of aerodromes, allowing pilots in flight to receive current weather observations.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

QNH is the altimeter sub-scale setting that, when applied, causes the altimeter to read the aerodrome elevation above mean sea level when on the ground. It is a corrected pressure value, not a direct pressure measurement.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

QDM is the magnetic heading to steer (in nil-wind conditions) to fly directly to the radio station.

Q56: How many times must the radiotelephony distress signal (MAYDAY) or the urgency signal (PAN PAN) be spoken? ^t90q56

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Both the distress signal ("MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY") and the urgency signal ("PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN") require the key phrase to be spoken three times. This repetition ensures the nature and priority of the message is clearly recognised even in poor radio conditions or with partial interference.

Q57: What information should, where possible, be included in an urgency message? ^t90q57

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

An urgency message (PAN PAN) should contain: identification and type of aircraft, the nature of the emergency, the crew's intentions, and position/level/heading information — enabling ATC to provide effective assistance.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

The ICAO message priority order is: (1) Distress (MAYDAY) — grave and imminent danger, (2) Urgency (PAN PAN) — serious but not immediately life-threatening, (3) Flight safety messages — ATC clearances and instructions.

ICAO Message Priority Order (highest to lowest):

| Priority | Category | Signal | Example | |---|---|---|---| | 1 | Distress | MAYDAY | Engine failure, fire | | 2 | Urgency | PAN PAN | Low fuel, passenger illness | | 3 | Flight safety | — | ATC clearances, instructions | | 4 | Meteorological | — | Weather reports, SIGMET | | 5 | Flight regularity | — | Schedule changes, ops info |

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Using the ICAO phonetic alphabet: B = Bravo, A = Alpha, F = Foxtrot, O = Oscar.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

The correct format is "Heading" followed by three digits (always three — "045" not "45"), then the altitude in feet when below the transition altitude.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Long waves (LW / LF band) travel the greatest distance because they diffract around the curvature of the Earth via ground wave propagation, allowing reception well beyond line-of-sight.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) is the official time standard adopted by ICAO for all aeronautical communications, flight plans, and publications.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q63: According to ICAO, what is the recommended speaking rate for radio communications? ^t90q63

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

ICAO recommends approximately 100 words per minute for radio communications — a moderate pace that ensures intelligibility, especially for non-native English speakers and in degraded radio conditions.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q64: Which statement concerning radiotelephony in the aeronautical mobile service is correct? ^t90q64

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

ICAO standard phraseology is the default for all radiotelephony, minimising misunderstanding risk in multilingual environments. Plain language is permitted only when no standard phrase exists for the situation.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

AFIS (Aerodrome Flight Information Service) is the flight information service specific to an aerodrome, providing pilots with information about aerodrome conditions and known traffic without issuing clearances.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q66: What is the correct abbreviated call sign for an aircraft with the full call sign AB-CDE? ^t90q66

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

The ICAO abbreviation rule retains the first character (nationality prefix) and the last two characters: AB-CDE becomes A-DE.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q67: When is a pilot permitted to use an abbreviated call sign? ^t90q67

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

A pilot may abbreviate their call sign only after the ground station has initiated the abbreviation. The ground station takes the lead because it can verify there are no similar call signs on frequency.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q68: Which instructions and information must always be read back? ^t90q68

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

The mandatory readback items under ICAO/EASA are: runway in use, altimeter settings, SSR (transponder) codes, level (altitude/flight level) instructions, and heading and speed instructions.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Squawk ident" instructs the pilot to press the IDENT button on their transponder, which generates a distinct enhanced signal on the controller's radar display to help identify the specific aircraft among surrounding traffic.

Q70: How does a pilot end the readback of an ATC clearance? ^t90q70

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Every readback of an ATC clearance must end with the aircraft's own call sign, confirming unambiguously which aircraft has received and correctly repeated the clearance.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q71: In which category are messages from an aircraft in a state of serious and/or imminent danger requiring immediate assistance classified? ^t90q71

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

An aircraft facing grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance transmits distress messages (MAYDAY), the highest priority category in aeronautical communications.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q72: From what point may an aircraft use its abbreviated callsign? ^t90q72

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Per ICAO Annex 10 Vol II / SERA.14050: an aircraft shall not use an abbreviated callsign until the aeronautical station has addressed the aircraft using the abbreviated form. The ground station initiates the abbreviation — only then may the pilot follow suit.

Q73: An aircraft fails to establish radio contact with a ground station on the designated frequency or any other appropriate frequency. What action must the pilot take? ^t90q73

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

If unable to contact the designated station, the pilot should first try to establish communication with other aircraft or aeronautical stations that could relay the message.

Q74: In the aeronautical mobile service, which of the following is an international distress frequency? ^t90q74

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

The international VHF distress (guard) frequency is 121.500 MHz, monitored continuously by ATC facilities worldwide.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Using the ICAO phonetic alphabet: N = November, D = Delta, G = Golf, F = Foxtrot.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

An aeronautical station is defined as a land station in the aeronautical mobile service, providing two-way communication with aircraft. In certain cases, it may be located on a ship or offshore platform.

Key Terms

D — Drag ### Q77: What does the abbreviation "HJ" mean? ^t90q77

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

HJ (from French "Heure de Jour") means daylight hours — from sunrise to sunset. This designation appears in AIPs and NOTAMs for facilities open only during daylight.

Q78: Which instructions and information must always be read back verbatim? ^t90q78

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

The mandatory readback items are: runway in use, altimeter settings, level instructions, SSR codes, and heading/speed instructions. Surface wind is also included in some regional implementations.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q79: In which message category can ATC clearances, take-off and landing clearances, and traffic information from the air traffic control service be classified? ^t90q79

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

ATC clearances, take-off/landing instructions, and traffic information are all classified as flight safety messages, ranked third in the ICAO priority hierarchy after distress and urgency messages.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"Squawk 1234" means the pilot must select code 1234 on the transponder and ensure it is operating. This enables radar controllers to identify the aircraft using the assigned code.

Q81: What does the abbreviation "ATIS" stand for? ^t90q81

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

ATIS stands for Automatic Terminal Information Service — a continuously broadcast recording of current meteorological and operational information for an aerodrome, identified by a letter code that changes with each update.

Key Terms

ATIS = Automatic Terminal Information Service ### Q82: What is the call sign suffix of the Flight Information Service? ^t90q82

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

The Flight Information Service uses the call sign suffix "Information" (e.g., "Geneva Information" or "Zurich Information").

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q83: What does the term "QDR" mean? ^t90q83

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

QDR is the magnetic bearing from the station to the aircraft — the direction in which the aircraft lies as seen from the station, referenced to magnetic north.

Q84: What influences the reception quality of VHF radio? ^t90q84

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

VHF radio propagates by line-of-sight, so reception quality depends primarily on flight altitude (which determines how far the radio horizon extends) and topography (mountains and terrain can block signals).

Key Terms

VHF = Very High Frequency ### Q85: What does the term "QFE" mean? ^t90q85

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

QFE is the atmospheric pressure at the aerodrome elevation or runway threshold. When set on the altimeter, the instrument reads zero on the ground and displays height above the aerodrome in flight.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

The correct ICAO priority order is: (1) Distress messages, (2) Urgency messages, (3) Flight safety messages, followed by meteorological, direction-finding, regularity, and other messages.

ICAO Message Priority Order (highest to lowest):

| Priority | Category | Signal | Example | |---|---|---|---| | 1 | Distress | MAYDAY | Engine failure, fire | | 2 | Urgency | PAN PAN | Low fuel, passenger illness | | 3 | Flight safety | — | ATC clearances, instructions | | 4 | Meteorological | — | Weather reports, SIGMET | | 5 | Flight regularity | — | Schedule changes, ops info |

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q87: What is the urgency signal in radiotelephony? ^t90q87

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

The radiotelephony urgency signal is "PAN PAN" spoken three times, indicating a serious condition that requires timely assistance but is not an immediate life-threatening emergency.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q88: On the readability scale, what does degree "5" mean? ^t90q88

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

Readability 5 is the highest level on the ICAO scale, meaning the transmission is perfectly clear and intelligible.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q89: What is the name of the time system used worldwide by air traffic services and in the aeronautical fixed service? ^t90q89

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is the universal time standard used by all air traffic services and aeronautical fixed services worldwide. It eliminates time zone ambiguity in international operations.

Q90: What elements should a distress message contain? ^t90q90

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

A complete distress message (MAYDAY) should contain: aircraft callsign and type, the nature of the distress, the pilot's intentions, and position/level/heading — giving rescue services maximum information to coordinate assistance.

Key Terms

D — Drag ### Q91: What does "FEW" mean for cloud coverage in a METAR weather report? ^t90q91

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

In METAR cloud coverage reporting, FEW designates 1 to 2 oktas (eighths) of sky covered — the sparsest cloud category.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

SCT stands for Scattered, representing 3 to 4 oktas (eighths) of sky covered by cloud.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

BKN stands for Broken, meaning 5 to 7 oktas (eighths) of the sky are covered — predominantly overcast with some gaps.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Transponder code 7600 is the internationally standardised squawk for loss of radio communication (NORDO), alerting radar controllers to the communication failure.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

When a pilot can transmit but cannot receive, the blind transmission must begin with the phrase "Transmitting blind" (or "Transmitting blind on [frequency]") to alert any receiving station of the one-way nature of the communication.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q96: How many times shall a blind transmission be made? ^t90q96

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

A blind transmission is made once on the current frequency (and optionally repeated once on the emergency frequency if appropriate). Making it multiple times would congest the frequency unnecessarily.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q97: In what situation is it appropriate to set transponder code 7600? ^t90q97

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Transponder code 7600 is specifically designated for loss of radio communication (NORDO), alerting radar controllers so they can provide appropriate separation and visual signals.

Q98: What is the correct course of action when experiencing a radio failure in class D airspace? ^t90q98

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

ICAO procedures for VFR radio failure in controlled airspace require the pilot to either continue the flight according to the last ATC clearance received while complying with VFR rules, or to leave the airspace by the shortest route.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

An urgency message is preceded by "Pan Pan" spoken three times ("PAN PAN, PAN PAN, PAN PAN"). This alerts all stations on the frequency to a serious but not immediately life-threatening situation.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q100: On which frequency should an initial distress message be transmitted? ^t90q100

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

The initial distress or urgency call should be made on the frequency currently in use, because that frequency is already being monitored by the appropriate ATC unit handling the aircraft. Switching frequencies risks losing contact and wastes critical time.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q101: What kind of information should be included in an urgency message? ^t90q101

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

An urgency message (PAN PAN) must include: the nature of the problem, important support information, the pilot's intentions, and position/heading/altitude data — enabling ATC to coordinate assistance effectively.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

The 118.000 to 136.975 MHz band falls within the Very High Frequency (VHF) range, which is the standard for civil aviation voice communication due to its reliable line-of-sight propagation and clarity.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

In METAR reports, visibility is expressed in meters when it is 5 km (5000 m) or less, providing the precision needed at operationally critical low visibilities. When visibility exceeds 5 km, it is reported in kilometers.

Key Terms

METAR = Aerodrome routine weather report ### Q104: How are urgency messages defined? ^t90q104

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Urgency messages (PAN PAN) concern the safety of an aircraft, watercraft, vehicle, or person in sight — situations that are serious but do not yet constitute the grave and imminent danger of a distress situation.

Q105: What do distress messages contain? ^t90q105

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Distress messages (MAYDAY) contain information about aircraft and passengers facing a grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance — the highest priority category.

Q106: What is the approximate speed of electromagnetic wave propagation? ^t90q106

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

Electromagnetic waves (including radio waves) propagate at the speed of light, approximately 300,000 km/s (3 × 10⁸ m/s) in a vacuum.

Q107: In what cases is visibility transmitted in kilometers? ^t90q107

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

In METAR reporting, visibility is expressed in kilometers when it exceeds 5 km (e.g., "6KM" or "9999" for 10 km or more). Below 5 km, meters are used for greater precision at operationally critical low visibilities.

Key Terms

METAR = Aerodrome routine weather report ### Q108: How can you obtain meteorological information for airports during a cross-country flight? ^t90q108

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

VOLMET is the continuous radio broadcast service that provides current METAR observations for a series of aerodromes, available to pilots in flight on designated frequencies.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

VHF radio propagates by line-of-sight, so altitude is the primary factor determining reception range — higher altitude means a more distant radio horizon.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

Blind transmissions must be made on the current frequency in use, because that is the frequency being monitored by the ATC unit responsible for the aircraft. Switching to another frequency would mean the relevant controller might not hear the transmission.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q111: Under what condition may a VFR flight without radio enter a class D aerodrome? ^t90q111

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Entry into Class D airspace without radio is only permissible when prior approval has been obtained (e.g., by telephone before departure, or a clearance received before the radio failed). Without prior approval, two-way radio communication is mandatory for Class D.

![](figures/luftraeume_overview.jpg)

Key Terms

VFR = Visual Flight Rules ### Q112: What is the correct transponder code for emergencies? ^t90q112

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

Transponder code 7700 is the internationally standardised emergency squawk that triggers alarms on ATC radar displays.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

VOLMET (from French "vol" = flight, "météo" = weather) broadcasts meteorological information — specifically current weather reports (METARs) and sometimes TAFs for a series of aerodromes.

Key Terms

VOLMET = Weather broadcasts for aircraft in flight ### Q114: How long is an ATIS broadcast valid for? ^t90q114

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

ATIS broadcasts are updated at approximately 30-minute intervals (or sooner if conditions change significantly), making each broadcast valid for about 30 minutes. Each update is assigned a new identification letter.

Key Terms

ATIS = Automatic Terminal Information Service ### Q115: What is the standard abbreviation for the term abeam? ^t90q115

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

ABM is the ICAO-standard abbreviation for "abeam," describing a position at right angles to the aircraft's track (directly to the side). This abbreviation is used in flight plans, ATC communications, and aeronautical publications.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

VFR stands for Visual Flight Rules — the set of regulations governing flight by visual reference.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

OBST is the ICAO-standard abbreviation for obstacle, used in NOTAMs, aeronautical charts, and obstacle data publications.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q118: What does the abbreviation FIS stand for? ^t90q118

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

FIS stands for Flight Information Service, providing advice and information useful for safe and efficient flight conduct. It is a service, not a system — making option A incorrect.

Q119: What does the abbreviation FIR stand for? ^t90q119

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

FIR stands for Flight Information Region — a defined volume of airspace within which flight information service and alerting service are provided under ICAO standards. It is the fundamental building block of airspace management.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

H24 means continuous 24-hour service — the facility is operational at all times without interruption.

Q121: What does the abbreviation HX stand for? ^t90q121

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

HX is the ICAO abbreviation indicating no specific or predetermined operating hours — the facility may be available on request or intermittently. Pilots must check NOTAMs or contact the facility to confirm availability.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q122: How is the directional information 12 o'clock correctly transmitted? ^t90q122

DE · FR

Answer

A)

Explanation

Clock positions used for traffic advisories are spoken as the full natural number followed by "o'clock": "Twelve o'clock" means directly ahead.

Q123: What does the phrase Roger mean? ^t90q123

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

"Roger" means solely "I have received all of your last transmission" — it is a receipt acknowledgement only, not a commitment to comply or a grant of permission.

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control ### Q124: What does the phrase Correction mean? ^t90q124

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"Correction" signals that the speaker has made an error in the current transmission, and the corrected information follows immediately. This prevents the listener from acting on incorrect data.

Q125: What does the phrase Approved mean? ^t90q125

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Approved" means ATC has granted permission for the specific action the pilot proposed or requested.

Key Terms

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

"Affirm" is the ICAO-standard civil aviation word for "yes.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q127: What phrase does a pilot use when a transmission requires a "no" answer? ^t90q127

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

"Negative" is the ICAO-standard phrase for "no" or "that is not correct," chosen for unambiguous clarity in radio communications.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization ### Q128: How should the instruction "DZF after lift-off climb straight ahead until 2500 feet before turning right heading 220 degrees, wind 090 degrees, 5 knots, runway 12, cleared for take-off" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q128

DE · FR

Answer

B)

Explanation

The correct readback includes all safety-critical items: the departure instruction (climb straight ahead to 2500 ft, turn right heading 220), the runway designator (runway 12), and the take-off clearance. Wind information does not require readback and is correctly omitted.

Q129: How should the instruction "Next report PAH" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q129

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"Wilco" (will comply) is the correct acknowledgement for an instruction that requires future action — the pilot confirms both receipt and intention to report at waypoint PAH.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization

Q130: How should the instruction "Squawk 4321, Call Bremen Radar on 131.325" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q130

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

Both the transponder code and the new frequency are safety-critical items that must be read back to confirm correct receipt: "Squawk 4321, 131.325.

Q131: How should "You are now entering airspace Delta" be correctly acknowledged? ^t90q131

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

"You are now entering airspace Delta" is informational — ATC is providing awareness, not issuing an instruction. The correct response is "Roger" (message received).

Key Terms

ATC = Air Traffic Control

Q132: What does "FEW" mean for cloud coverage in a METAR weather report? ^t90q132

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

FEW designates 1 to 2 oktas (eighths) of sky covered by cloud — the least amount of coverage in the METAR scale.

Key Terms

ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization; METAR = Aerodrome routine weather report

Q133: What does "SCT" mean for cloud coverage in a METAR weather report? ^t90q133

DE · FR

Answer

C)

Explanation

SCT (Scattered) represents 3 to 4 oktas (eighths) of sky coverage in a METAR report.

Key Terms

METAR = Aerodrome routine weather report; VFR = Visual Flight Rules

Q134: What does "BKN" mean for cloud coverage in a METAR weather report? ^t90q134

DE · FR

Answer

D)

Explanation

BKN (Broken) represents 5 to 7 oktas (eighths) of sky coverage — the sky is predominantly covered with some gaps visible.

Key Terms

METAR = Aerodrome routine weather report; VFR = Visual Flight Rules