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 experiencing radio failure, immediately squawk 7600.
In VFR conditions, continue flight visually and land as soon as practicable at the nearest suitable airport, exercising good judgment.
In IMC, adhere to specific procedures for route (last assigned, expected, or filed) and altitude (highest of last assigned, MEA, or expected), proceeding to your destination to commence an approach as close to your ETA as possible, utilizing emergency authority if needed.
For a total electrical failure in IMC, prioritize climbing or descending to achieve VFR conditions.

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In VFR Conditions: