AA.VI.C.K3FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Knowledge
Pilot/controller responsibilities, communication procedures, and ATC services available...
Pilot/controller responsibilities, communication procedures, and ATC services available to pilots.
Bottom line
An ATC clearance allows an aircraft to proceed under specified traffic conditions within controlled airspace for the purpose of providing separation between known aircraft. The controller’s primary responsibility is separation of aircraft operating under IFR. A safe instrument flight is the result of cooperation between controller and pilot.
Key numbers
| Number | What it means |
|---|---|
| Altitude reporting required by regulation in Class B and Class C airspace and inside a 30-mile circle surrounding the primary airport in Class B airspace | Mode C veil |
| No later than 500 feet above airport elevation for DPs | RNAV DP engage |
| Position confirmed within 1,000 feet at the start point of take-off roll for aircraft without GPS/GNSS using DME/DME/IRU | DME/DME/IRU check |
FAA references
- IFH ch. 10 (p. 10-3) — FAA-H-8083-15B
- IFH ch. 2 (pp. 2-3–2-4) — FAA-H-8083-15B
- AC 90-100, paras. 10c, 10d — AC No: 90-100A
- 14 CFR 91.185 (IFR operations: Two-way radio communications failure.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
- RMH ch. 8 (p. 8-3) — FAA-H-8083-2A
- IFH ch. 1 (p. 1-6) — FAA-H-8083-15B
- 14 CFR 91.130 (Operations in Class C airspace.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
- 14 CFR 91.129 (Operations in Class D airspace.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
- AFH ch. 11 (p. 11-13) — FAA-H-8083-3C
Build understanding you can use
Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.
- Full teaching sections: What it is; Key points; Rules and numbers; How it is done
- Check your understanding with answers you can reveal
- Common mistakes paired with the FAA facts that correct them