Departure & approach

090 CommunicationsChapter 4

Take-off and departure

Key fact

Aircraft should not be spoken to whilst taking off or landing unless in an emergency.

Definition — Cleared for immediate takeoff

Taxi straight onto the runway — do not stop, just take off.

Exam trap

The pilot should NEVER use the word “take-off” unless they have been cleared for take-off. Instead use “Ready for Departure”.

Missed approach

Flight rules	Action
IFR	Follow the missed approach procedure
VFR	Continue the traffic pattern

VFR circuit joining

Key fact

Descend on the deadside to 1,000 ft AAL. Report “Deadside descending”. Join downwind and continue the circuit. Descend to 2,000 ft AAL to view the signal square.

FIR boundary crossing (OLE)

Key fact

Use the FIS frequency when crossing a FIR boundary. Report in this order:

• Aircraft identification and type
• Position and heading
• Level and flight conditions
• Departure aerodrome
• Estimated time at entry point
• Route and point of first intended landing
• TAS
• Requested level on airway/advisory route

Standard position report (6 items)

When making a position report, include:

1. Aircraft identification
2. Position
3. Time
4. Level
5. Next position and ETA
6. Ensuing significant point

Key fact

Position reports follow the mnemonic OLE for FIR boundary crossing format (see above for full content).