Do you think you know all you need to know about talking on the radio? Is there maybe some room for improvement? I bet there is. We can all do a better on the radio. It is a rare day that I hear someone with perfect or near-perfect radio technique (at least my interpretation of what is perfect).
The key is to not accept “good enough” with your communication skills. When you find yourself on a very busy frequency (ATC enroute, Towered or Non-towered airport) using clear, concise radio communications will pay off huge (especially at busy non-towered airports). Learn what is proper and continually evaluate your radio calls. Don’t be afraid of making a mistake either. Mistakes are guaranteed! The idea is to strive for constant improvement. This will help make you a SAFER pilot!
Here is my list of resources for better radio communications.
VFR Communications for Non-Towered Airports (Updated 22 Jun 2023) Good radio communications is critical for safety. EVERYONE can and should work on improving their comm skills. Get some tips from this presentation I created for a local FAAST seminar. (Trying to fix link, go to presentations page for the file)
Austin’s Very Easy Guide to Proper Radio Phraseology and Technique
FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) Radio Communications Phraseology and Techniques
IN the Air and ON the Air – Decoding (and Parroting) Pilot Patter
Misunderstandings in Air Traffic Communications
Last Call for what? AvWeb article about pilot’s saying “last call” on the radio.
Radio Comm Handout by AOPA
IFR Communications: Serious Business – What you say and what you hear on the radio are more than mere words (Plane & Pilot Article)
IFR Radio A lot of great information on IFR communications plus links to much more information.
Mike Kloch Aviation Consulting 