Airport operationsQuestion 219 of 934

A pilot cannot safely follow a clearance from ATC. Which word should the pilot use?

  1. "UNABLE"
  2. "WILCO"
  3. "NEGATIVE CONTACT"
  4. "STANDBY"
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Correct answer: "UNABLE"

If the pilot cannot safely comply with an ATC instruction, the pilot should say "UNABLE."

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 14: Airport Operations — ATC Instructions, page 367

Practice airport operations

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026