Don't Get Lost Without Comms

Been a minute since you gave lost comm procedures some thought? Remember, they can happen anywhere and anytime. 

Most kneeboards have light signal information printed on them, but it helps to rehearse both day and night scenarios on the ground. 

Doing so will reduce your reaction time and help you stay focused on flying the plane. Here are a few quick reminders on what you should think about in a lost comms scenario.  

Light signals in the air

• Solid green: clear to land. 
• Flashing green: continue inbound.
• Solid red: continue circling and give way.
• Flashing red: airport unsafe, divert to alternate.
• Flashing red and green: exercise extreme caution.

Light signals on the ground

• Solid green: clear for take-off.
• Flashing green: cleared to taxi. 
• Solid red: stop.
• Flashing red: exit the runway.
• Flashing white: return to starting point on the airport.

Acknowledging signals
Rock your wings during the day. Flash your landing light at night. 

Troubleshooting lost comms

• Volume levels on headset and comms
• Too much squelch
• Incorrect frequencies 
• Loose jacks
• Circuit breakers
• Audio panel switches (it's very easy to hit the wrong toggle from Pilot, Crew, or All) 

Squawk code and flight procedures
Squawk 7600, look to the tower for light signals, determine the flow of traffic, and make your way to the airport. Don't press IDENT unless you can hear an ATC transmission instructing you to do so; otherwise, they'll think you actually can hear them.

ATC wants to get you down safely, and they will advise other traffic of your situation (NORDO, no radio). Once down, proceed to the ramp when you see flashing green, and call the tower if you can later as a courtesy to thank them for their help.

If you lose comms at an uncontrolled airport, make minimal initial intention broadcasts just in case you can transmit but can't receive, and keep your eyes wide open for anyone in the pattern. Once down, taxi clear the runway and troubleshoot further.

Most importantly, if lost comms do happen, day or night, fly the airplane first.