Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems
To determine the applicant understands communications, ATC light signals, and runway lighting systems and can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Bottom line
The following procedures are used by ATCTs in the control of aircraft, ground vehicles, equipment, and personnel not equipped with radio. ATC personnel use a directive traffic control signal which emits an intense narrow light beam of a selected color (either red, white, or green) when controlling traffic by light signals. RWSL is a fully automated system that provides runway status information to pilots and surface vehicle operators to clearly indicate when it is unsafe to enter, cross, takeoff from, or land on a runway.
FAA references
- AIM 4-3-13 (Traffic Control Light Signals) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
- AIM 2-1-6 (Runway Status Light (RWSL) System) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
- AIM 4-2-13 (Communications with Tower when Aircraft Transmitter or Receiver or Both are Inoperative) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
Knowledge
- AI.VI.A.K1: How to obtain appropriate radio frequencies.
- AI.VI.A.K2: Proper radio communication procedures and air traffic control (ATC) phraseology.
- AI.VI.A.K3: ATC light signal recognition.
- AI.VI.A.K4: Appropriate use of transponder(s).
- AI.VI.A.K5: Lost communication procedures.
- AI.VI.A.K6: Equipment issues that could cause loss of communication.
- AI.VI.A.K7: Radar assistance.
- AI.VI.A.K8: Runway Status Lighting Systems.
- AI.VI.A.K9: Common errors related to this Task.
Risk management
Skills
- AI.VI.A.S1: Select and activate appropriate frequencies.
- AI.VI.A.S2: Transmit using standard phraseology and procedures as specified in the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and Pilot/Controller Glossary.
- AI.VI.A.S3: Acknowledge radio communications and comply with ATC instructions or as directed by the evaluator.
- AI.VI.A.S4: Analyze and correct common errors related to this Task.
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