My student and I were on an IFR flight. Nearing our destination, it occurred to me that we hadn’t heard from ATC in a while, so I called them. No answer. I opened the squelch and tried again. Nobody home. Could we both have missed a radio call? I tried calling ATC on the frequency on the approach plate and got a booming, clear reply. No mention of being out of contact. To this day I think ATC forgot the hand off. But it could have been far worse.
Uh-Oh, Nordo
Key Takeaways:
- Most "NO RaDiO" (NORDO) incidents are due to simple issues like incorrect volume, frequency, or equipment settings, which pilots should troubleshoot thoroughly before assuming a major failure and squawking 7600.
- Lost communication procedures differ significantly for VFR and IFR flights; VFR pilots should land at a non-towered airport, while IFR pilots must adhere to specific routes ("AVEnue F") and altitudes ("MEA") outlined in 14 CFR 91.185.
- Pilots must exercise good judgment in NORDO situations, as these events are highly stressful and unpredictable for air traffic controllers who cannot directly communicate with or redirect the affected aircraft.
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