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IR.I.C.R5FAA-S-ACS-8C · Nov 2023Risk management

Limitations of air traffic control (ATC) services.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Limitations of air traffic control (ATC) services.

Bottom line

Flight crews must understand that terrain clearance cannot be assured by ATC when aircraft are operating at altitudes that are not served by Center or approach radar. When a pilot is uncertain of an ATC clearance, that pilot shall immediately request clarification from ATC.

FAA references

  1. PHAK ch. 15 (p. 15-7) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  2. IPH ch. 4 (p. 4-15) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  3. PHAK ch. 14 (p. 14-24) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  4. RMH ch. 6 (pp. 6-3–6-4) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  5. IFH ch. 10 (p. 10-2) — FAA-H-8083-15B
  6. AIM 5-5-15 (Minimum Fuel Advisory) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  7. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-8) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  8. 14 CFR 91.123 (Compliance with ATC clearances and instructions.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
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