What is the protocol for lost communication with ATC?

What is the protocol for lost communication with ATC?

• A. Squawk emergency or appropriate squawk, follow the published lost communications procedures and continue as last assigned.
• B. Turn off transponder and proceed visually to a safe landing.
• C. Continue as if in contact with ATC without changes.
• D. Communicate on a different frequency only when in visual contact.

Answer: (A)

When you lose radio contact with ATC, you follow the established lost communications procedures to keep security and traffic flow intact. The key step is to set the transponder to the lost-communications code (7600) and continue as last assigned by ATC. If you were being vectored, maintain that last assigned heading or route, then proceed via the route ATC had you on, or the expected route if you have one, and pilot your altitude by the last assigned altitude (or the minimum altitude appropriate for IFR, or as ATC has advised you to expect). Keep trying to reestablish communications, and proceed to your destination or an appropriate alternate as planned, landing when it’s safe to do so. The other options don’t fit because turning off the transponder or changing frequency without following the published procedures can create conflicting traffic and lacks regulatory compliance; continuing as if you’re in contact with ATC without changes ignores the loss of comms; and switching frequencies only when visually in sight doesn’t address the formal lost-communications sequence that keeps you predictable to ATC and other aircraft.

When you lose radio contact with ATC, you follow the established lost communications procedures to keep security and traffic flow intact. The key step is to set the transponder to the lost-communications code (7600) and continue as last assigned by ATC. If you were being vectored, maintain that last assigned heading or route, then proceed via the route ATC had you on, or the expected route if you have one, and pilot your altitude by the last assigned altitude (or the minimum altitude appropriate for IFR, or as ATC has advised you to expect). Keep trying to reestablish communications, and proceed to your destination or an appropriate alternate as planned, landing when it’s safe to do so.

The other options don’t fit because turning off the transponder or changing frequency without following the published procedures can create conflicting traffic and lacks regulatory compliance; continuing as if you’re in contact with ATC without changes ignores the loss of comms; and switching frequencies only when visually in sight doesn’t address the formal lost-communications sequence that keeps you predictable to ATC and other aircraft.