MF/ATF broadcast phraseology
Calling an FSS working the MF:
- Initial contact, no details:
(FSS), (call sign and type). - Wait for FSS to answer.
- Give position, altitude, estimate (ETA), intentions. End
REQUEST ADVISORY(addWITH INFORMATION (identifier)if ATIS already obtained).
MF calls (addressed to (aerodrome) TRAFFIC, not a named unit; TC AIM RAC 4.5.6):
| Call | Content | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Acknowledge FSS advisory | Your intentions. FSS replies ROGER RUNWAY (number), may ask for position report |
|
| Joining / downwind | Position only | "downwind runway two-nine" |
| Final | Position + intentions | "final runway two-nine, touch-and-go" |
| Clear of runway | CLEAR OF (runway number) to FSS |
|
| Taxi | Taxi route, hold-short point, departure direction; listen to ATIS first if available | |
| Departure | Inform FSS, relay departure procedure (e.g. runway, initial climb, turn-out direction) | |
| Airborne | Runway used | |
| Departing circuit | Clear of circuit plus direction | "clear of circuit, northbound" |
| Flying through MF area (no landing), initial | Position, altitude, intentions | |
| Flying through MF area (no landing), clear | CLEAR OF THE AREA |
ATF calls (NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, ATF; TC AIM RAC 4.5.7 "should"):
- Same content as MF calls; recommended for safety, not CARs-required.
- Normally broadcast to
(aerodrome) TRAFFIC. - Directed call can go to a vehicle operator, or to UNICOM where one exists (TC AIM RAC 4.5.6).
- First call, at least 5 minutes before entry: position with altitude, or distance and direction from the aerodrome, plus intentions.
- Later calls: position plus intentions.
Trap: "ANY TRAFFIC IN THE AREA, PLEASE ADVISE" is not standard phraseology; don't fish; traffic present should call on its own (TC AIM RAC 4.5.2).
References
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Mandatory Frequency (MF) - Arrival/Circuits
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, MF - Start Up/Taxi/Takeoff
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, MF - Flying Through Area
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Aerodrome Traffic Frequency (ATF)
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, ATF - Start Up/Taxi/Takeoff
- TC AIM RAC 4.5.2
- TC AIM RAC 4.5.6
- TC AIM RAC 4.5.7