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Radio communicationsQuestion 263 of 934

A pilot's transmitter fails. The pilot enters the pattern at a towered airport and sees a light signal in daylight. How does the pilot acknowledge it?

  1. By rocking the wings
  2. By moving the ailerons while taxiing only
  3. By blinking the landing light
  4. By squawking IDENT
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Correct answer: By rocking the wings

In daylight, the pilot acknowledges tower transmissions or light signals by rocking the wings. At night, blink the landing or navigation lights.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 4-2-13 Communications with Tower when Aircraft Transmitter or Receiver or Both are Inoperative, page 235

Practice radio communications

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026