radio.training

Radio failure in a control zone: the VFR procedure

A silent radio in the circuit is unsettling, but the procedure is short. It comes from CAR 602.138, which the TC AIM sets out in its section on VFR communications failure.

What the regulation requires

When two-way radio communication fails with the controlling ATC unit while you are VFR in Class B, C or D airspace, the pilot-in-command shall:

• leave the airspace: where the airspace is a control zone, by landing at the aerodrome for which the control zone is established, and in any other case by the shortest route;
• where the aircraft is equipped with a transponder, set it to code 7600;
• inform an air traffic control unit as soon as possible of the actions taken.

Rejoining without a radio

If there is a suitable aerodrome nearby, the TC AIM recommends the no-radio (NORDO) arrival. Approach from the upwind side of the runway and join crosswind at circuit height, abeam a point about midway between the ends of the runway, then join the downwind leg. If you have to cross the airport first, do it at least 500 feet above circuit height.

Before turning final, check for any aircraft on a straight-in approach. Landing clearance is given on final approach, by light. If you do not receive it, pull up and make another circuit, except in an emergency.

Reading the lamp

A steady green in the air is cleared to land. A steady red means give way to other aircraft and continue circling. The full table is in the light signals guide. Acknowledge in the daytime by rocking your wings, and at night by flashing your lights.

After landing

You still owe ATC a report of what you did, as soon as possible. NAV CANADA publishes the phone numbers of towers, flight information centres and flight service stations in the Canada Flight Supplement. The CFS also allows a cellphone call to the ATS unit in flight, but only after the normal communications failure procedures have been followed.

The radio failure drill walks through all of this as nine decisions, each with its source.

Work through a radio failure → Drill the light signals →