PPL Checkride Guide
← Area III. Airport and Seaplane Base Operations

Task III.A

Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with normal and emergency radio communications, air traffic control (ATC) light signals, and runway lighting systems.

References: 14 CFR part 91; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25

Knowledge9 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.III.A.K1How to obtain appropriate radio frequencies.
  • PA.III.A.K2Proper radio communication procedures and air traffic control (ATC) phraseology.
  • PA.III.A.K3ATC light signal recognition.
  • PA.III.A.K4Appropriate use of transponder(s).
  • PA.III.A.K5Lost communication procedures.
  • PA.III.A.K6Equipment issues that could cause loss of communication.
  • PA.III.A.K7Radar assistance.
  • PA.III.A.K8National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident/incident reporting.
  • PA.III.A.K9Runway Status Lighting Systems.
Risk Management4 elements

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

  • PA.III.A.R1Communication.
  • PA.III.A.R2Deciding if and when to declare an emergency.
  • PA.III.A.R3[Archived]
  • PA.III.A.R4Use of non-standard phraseology.
Skills3 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.III.A.S1Select and activate appropriate frequencies.
  • PA.III.A.S2Transmit using standard phraseology and procedures as specified in the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and Pilot/Controller Glossary.
  • PA.III.A.S3Acknowledge radio communications and comply with ATC instructions or as directed by the evaluator.

Overview

Study notes for Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems are coming soon. The official ACS elements for this task are listed above — use them as your checklist while the full study guide is being written.

Key Knowledge

Content coming soon.

Common DPE Questions

Content coming soon.

References

14 CFR part 91; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25