FAA Ground School Practice Test

If an aircraft's radio fails, what is the recommended action when landing at a controlled airport?

1. Ignore normal traffic patterns

2. Request assistance via radio

3. Observe traffic flow and look for a light signal from the tower

4. Attempt to land without communication

The correct answer is: Observe traffic flow and look for a light signal from the tower

In the event of a radio failure while approaching a controlled airport, observing the traffic flow and looking for light signals from the control tower is the recommended action. When an aircraft loses radio communication, it is crucial to maintain awareness of the airport environment and existing traffic patterns to ensure a safe landing. Pilots are trained to recognize and follow light signals from the tower, which serve as visual instructions for various maneuvers, including landing clearance. By observing the traffic flow, a pilot can gauge where other aircraft are and when it might be safe to enter the traffic pattern. The tower will often signal with lights, such as a green light indicating that it is safe to land. This method provides a way to communicate with the control tower without radio, ensuring that the pilot can still operate safely while adhering to the expected procedures at a controlled airport. This approach enhances safety not only for the aircraft in question but also for others operating in the same airspace.