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IR.III.A.R2FAA-S-ACS-8C · Nov 2023Risk management

Inappropriate, incomplete, or incorrect ATC clearances.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Inappropriate, incomplete, or incorrect ATC clearances.

Bottom line

Unexpected ATC clearances, restrictions, or reroutes that may significantly increase workload. When a pilot is uncertain of an ATC clearance, that pilot shall immediately request clarification from ATC.

FAA references

  1. IFH ch. 10 (p. 10-3) — FAA-H-8083-15B
  2. RMH ch. 6 (p. 6-1) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  3. PHAK ch. 14 (p. 14-33) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  4. AIM 4-4-7 (Pilot Responsibility upon Clearance Issuance) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  5. IPH ch. 1 (p. 1-43) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  6. 14 CFR 91.123 (Compliance with ATC clearances and instructions.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  7. AIM 4-4-4 (Amended Clearances) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  8. IPH ch. 2 (p. 2-7) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  9. IPH ch. 3 (p. 3-9) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  10. IFH ch. 2 (p. 2-4) — FAA-H-8083-15B
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