Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with normal and emergency radio communications, air traffic control (ATC) light signals, and runway lighting systems.
Bottom line
Control towers use light signals to control aircraft, ground vehicles, equipment, and personnel not equipped with radio, and also those equipped with radio when radio contact cannot be established. The Runway Status Light system 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. The three major areas contributing to runway incursions are communications, airport knowledge, and flight deck procedures for maintaining orientation.
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)
- AFH ch. 1 (p. 1-12) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- 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
- PA.III.A.K1: How to obtain appropriate radio frequencies.
- PA.III.A.K2: Proper radio communication procedures and air traffic control (ATC) phraseology.
- PA.III.A.K3: ATC light signal recognition.
- PA.III.A.K4: Appropriate use of transponder(s).
- PA.III.A.K5: Lost communication procedures.
- PA.III.A.K6: Equipment issues that could cause loss of communication.
- PA.III.A.K7: Radar assistance.
- PA.III.A.K8: National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident/incident reporting.
- PA.III.A.K9: Runway Status Lighting Systems.
Risk management
- PA.III.A.R1: Communication.
- PA.III.A.R2: Deciding if and when to declare an emergency.
- PA.III.A.R3: PA.VIII.E.K1b PA.VIII.F.S3 PA.XII.A.R2
- PA.III.A.R4: Use of non-standard phraseology.
Skills
- PA.III.A.S1: Select and activate appropriate frequencies.
- PA.III.A.S2: Transmit using standard phraseology and procedures as specified in the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and Pilot/Controller Glossary.
- PA.III.A.S3: Acknowledge radio communications and comply with ATC instructions or as directed by the evaluator.
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