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Radio communicationsQuestion 238 of 934

What does CTAF stand for, and what is it used for?

  1. Control Tower Approach Frequency, used for approach clearances at towered airports
  2. Common Terminal Alert Frequency, used for weather broadcasts at busy airports
  3. Common Traffic Advisory Frequency, used at airports without an operating tower
  4. Central Traffic Authority Frequency, used for IFR clearances at remote airports
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Correct answer: Common Traffic Advisory Frequency, used at airports without an operating tower

CTAF is the frequency for airport advisories when operating to or from an airport without an operating control tower.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 4-1-9 Traffic Advisory Practices at Airports Without Operating Control Towers, page 206

Practice radio communications

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026