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Radio communicationsQuestion 247 of 934

ATC tells a pilot to change frequency. Why should the pilot acknowledge the instruction?

  1. The new frequency opens only after the pilot replies
  2. The old frequency closes by itself after 30 seconds
  3. ATC needs the reply to change the transponder code
  4. Without it, ATC cannot tell if the pilot heard it
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Correct answer: Without it, ATC cannot tell if the pilot heard it

If the pilot just switches frequency, the controller has no way to know whether the instruction was heard.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 4-2-3 Contact Procedures, page 229

Practice radio communications

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026