Taking the "Lost" Out of Lost Communications

Abstract

When pilots encounter a loss of two-way radio communications during instrument flight, many situations are not clearly addressed in the regulations. The Federal Aviation Regula tions, the Aeronautical Information Manual, the Air Traffic Controller Manual, the Canadian Aeronautical Information Publication, and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Pilot Magazine provide information to aid pilots in decision-making during lost communications situations. There are some circumstances where pilots need additional guidance. The purpose of this paper is to present a review of the literature and input from controllers to provide information for pilots in the event of two-way radio communications failure and to present suggestions for areas of the regulations which could be improved.