Private Pilot · Area III: Airport and Seaplane Base Operations

Task A. Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems

FAA-S-ACS-6C · Effective 2024-05-31

Knowledge

What you should understand and be able to explain.

9 elements
  • PA.III.A.K1
    How to obtain appropriate radio frequencies.
  • PA.III.A.K2
    Proper radio communication procedures and air traffic control (ATC) phraseology.
  • PA.III.A.K3
    ATC light signal recognition.
  • PA.III.A.K4
    Appropriate use of transponder(s).
  • PA.III.A.K5
    Lost communication procedures.
  • PA.III.A.K6
    Equipment issues that could cause loss of communication.
  • PA.III.A.K7
    Radar assistance.
  • PA.III.A.K8
    National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident/incident reporting.
  • PA.III.A.K9
    Runway Status Lighting Systems.

Risk management

Risks to recognize and decisions to consider.

3 elements
  • PA.III.A.R1
    Communication.
  • PA.III.A.R2
    Deciding if and when to declare an emergency.
  • PA.III.A.R4
    Use of non-standard phraseology.
Skill elements and task objectives

This page covers knowledge and risk management. For the complete task, including skill standards, open the FAA document (PDF).