Readback and acknowledgement
Readback required (CAR 602.31(1)(b)):
| Rules | Readback of clearance | Ref |
|---|---|---|
| VFR | Only when ATC requests | 602.31(1)(b)(ii) |
| IFR | Always | 602.31(1)(b)(i) |
- IFR exceptions (unless ATC asks, CAR 602.31(2)):
- Clearance received on ground before departing controlled aerodrome with published SID.
- Clearance acknowledged by electronic means.
- HOLD SHORT instruction: always read back (NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Readback/Hearback).
- Worth reading back in VFR (same source):
- Clearance to enter runway, landing clearance, takeoff clearance, crossing or backtrack
- Route clearances, runway in use
- Altimeter settings, level/heading/speed, transponder codes
- Plain call sign: acceptable acknowledgement (same source; PSTAR 3.23).
- Full readback: any time to clarify, and whenever controller asks (TC AIM RAC 6.1).
- Communication, and assuming it occurred, is the single biggest cause of runway incursions. Challenge anything unclear (ASL 3/2025).
Trap: VFR readback is on request, except HOLD SHORT.
References
- CARs 602.31
- TC AIM RAC 6.1
- NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Readback/Hearback
- ASL 3/2025 - Runway Incursion Prevention
- TP 11919 PSTAR 3.23