FAA Ground School Practice Test

When communicating with McAlester flight service, how should you initiate contact as Hawk N666CB?

1. "McAlester radio, Hawk six six six Charlie Bravo, over."

2. "Hawk N666CB, McAlester radio, receiving Ardmore VORTAC."

3. "McAlester radio, this is Hawk N666CB, over."

4. "McAlester radio, Hawk six six six Charlie Bravo, receiving Ardmore VORTAC, over."

The correct answer is: "McAlester radio, Hawk six six six Charlie Bravo, receiving Ardmore VORTAC, over."

Initiating radio communications correctly is essential for clear and effective interactions with air traffic services. The preferred method of communication includes identifying yourself in a manner that adheres to the accepted conventions in aviation. In the correct choice, the communication begins with identifying the station being contacted, “McAlester radio,” followed by the aircraft's call sign “Hawk six six six Charlie Bravo.” This format makes it clear to the recipient who is initiating the communication. By stating that you are “receiving Ardmore VORTAC,” you provide additional context about your current navigation situation, which can be important for situational awareness. Ending the transmission with “over” indicates that you are finished speaking and are awaiting a response, which encourages prompt replies from the air traffic service. This choice effectively combines proper identification, relevant information, and a clear request for a response, which is crucial during radio communications to ensure clarity and mutual understanding between pilots and flight service stations.