Frequency selection & en route broadcasts

Wrong frequency: ATS or other pilots cannot reach you.

En route, VFR, uncontrolled airspace (not working an MF, an ATF, or VFR on an airway; RAC 5.1; SAR 4.2 Note 3):

• Monitor 126.7 MHz continuously.
• Whenever practicable, broadcast identification, position, altitude, intentions on it.
• Not mandatory for VFR or VFR-OTT; encouraged for own protection.
• NAVAID reports (RAC 8.10(b)): make on 126.7 MHz whenever practicable. If reaching the station needs another frequency, also broadcast on 126.7 MHz for other aircraft in the area.
• Class G generally: monitor 126.7 MHz whenever practicable (RAC 8.10(a)).

VFR position report format and RCO call: see enroute-position-reports.

Leaving tower frequency (RAC 4.2.9):

• Clear of control zone: no permission needed to leave, unless told otherwise.
• Frequency congested: skip release request and clear-of-zone report.
• Recommended: monitor tower until 10 NM from control zone. Then, once outside it (or beyond MF range at an uncontrolled aerodrome), monitor 126.7 MHz.

ATC-directed frequency change (NAV CANADA VFR Phraseology, Frequency Change):

• ATC transfers you: read back new frequency.
• No frequency-change instruction and clear of Class C or Class D airspace: may change to next appropriate frequency yourself.

Common frequency area (CFA) (GEN 5.1): area with designated frequency published for use by any aircraft, for air-to-air awareness of nearby traffic.

• Not a class of airspace.
• Not monitored by ATC.
• Not for use at uncontrolled aerodromes.

Reaching ATS for help (COM 1.4.2):

Trap: 126.7 MHz en route broadcast is encouraged for VFR, not mandatory.

Practice