Pilot Proficiency

What to Do If You Lose ATC Contact on an IFR Flight

Wednesday, August 17, 2016 at 09:23 PM ET

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What do you do if you lose contact with ATC? iStock

Key Takeaways:

Upon losing two-way radio communication, immediately squawk 7600.
In VFR conditions, continue VFR flight and land as soon as practicable at the nearest suitable airport, exercising good judgment.
In IMC, adhere to specific rules for route (last assigned, vectored, expected, or filed) and altitude (highest of last assigned, MEA, or expected), commencing descent and approach at your destination as close to your ETA as possible, using emergency authority if needed.
For total electrical failure in IMC, prioritize climbing or descending to a VFR altitude and proceeding to VFR conditions.

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In VFR Conditions: