ATC question
In GA, if you are flying VFR in contact with a center for flight following and are ready to switch to an airfield freq. for appr/landing, do you notify the center that you are doing so? Do they need to know that you won't be responding to any more contacts?
I ask because my only reference is the basic FSim ATC and there is no communication when switching away from a center freq. (when under your own navigation)
Basically, if a center is following you, do they get alarmed if you stop responding, or do they just assume you switched away for a landing?
3 Answers
Jump to latest
Not sure about that, but i assume for safety reasons.
Yes, they should hand you over to the relevant tower or approach frequency as per your initial call to the center. If they're too busy then you should tell them before switching frequencies to which they will probably agree.
If you don't, they'll probably see from your transponder that you're still in the air but it isn't good airmanship and is not a proper way to handle the radiotelephony.
Hey there!
Great question! In the real world of general aviation (GA), when you're flying VFR (Visual Flight Rules) and receiving flight following services from a center, it's essential to keep them in the loop about your actions, especially when you're about to switch frequencies for approach and landing. The communication between you and the center ensures safety and coordination in the airspace.
When you're nearing your destination and are ready to switch to the airfield frequency, you should inform the center by stating your intentions. A typical phrase would be something like this:
"N12345, 10 miles southwest of ABC Airport, request frequency change to ABC Tower"
The controller will then either approve your request or provide you with additional instructions. An example of a positive response would be:
"N12345, frequency change approved, squawk VFR, have a good day"
It's important to notify the center of your intentions because they need to know that you won't be responding to any more contacts. If you don't inform them and simply switch frequencies, it could lead to confusion or even a potential safety hazard as they might assume you are still within their area of responsibility.
FSim ATC, though a useful tool for practice, isn't always a perfect representation of real-world procedures. In reality, communication between pilots and controllers is crucial, and keeping them informed of your intentions helps maintain proper airspace management and safety.
So, to answer your question, yes, you should notify the center when switching away for approach/landing. It's part of maintaining clear communication and avoiding any misunderstandings that could lead to unnecessary alarms or potential incidents.
I hope this clears up any confusion. Safe flying!
Still does not answer your question? Ask a new question!
If the question and answers provided above do not answer your specific question - why not ask a new question of your own? Our community and flight simulator experts will provided a dedicated and unique answer to your flight sim question. And, you don't even need to register to post your question!
Search our questions and answers...
Be sure to search for your question from existing posted questions before asking a new question as your question may already exist from another user. If you're sure your question is unique and hasn't been asked before, consider asking a new question.
Related Questions
Flight Sim Questions that are closely related to this...
