FAA Ground School Practice Test

What frequency should a pilot use in the event of an emergency while on a VFR cross-country and not in contact with ATC?

1. 118.5 MHz

2. 121.5 MHz

3. 123.0 MHz

4. 126.7 MHz

The correct answer is: 121.5 MHz

In the event of an emergency while on a VFR (Visual Flight Rules) cross-country flight and not in contact with ATC (Air Traffic Control), a pilot should use 121.5 MHz. This frequency is designated as the international distress frequency for aviation emergencies. It is monitored by air traffic control facilities and can also be picked up by other aircraft in the vicinity, making it a vital communication channel for pilots in distress. Using this frequency alerts nearby pilots and ATC to the emergency situation, facilitating a possible response. It's important to note that while other frequencies like 118.5 MHz, 123.0 MHz, and 126.7 MHz may be used for various types of communications, they are not specifically assigned for emergency responses in the same way that 121.5 MHz is.