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IR.VI.C.R1FAA-S-ACS-8C · Nov 2023Risk management

Deviations from prescribed procedures or ATC instructions.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Deviations from prescribed procedures or ATC instructions.

Bottom line

Except in an emergency, no person may operate an aircraft contrary to an ATC instruction in an area in which air traffic control is exercised. When a pilot is uncertain of an ATC clearance, that pilot shall immediately request clarification from ATC.

FAA references

  1. RMH ch. 3 (pp. 3-1–3-2) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  2. 14 CFR 91.123 (Compliance with ATC clearances and instructions.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  3. AFH ch. 2 (p. 2-19) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  4. RMH ch. 7 (p. 7-2) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  5. RMH ch. 7 (pp. 7-3–7-4) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  6. 14 CFR 91.175 (Takeoff and landing under IFR.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  7. RMH ch. 6 (p. 6-4) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  8. IFH ch. 2 (p. 2-4) — FAA-H-8083-15B
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