How To Talk To Air Traffic Control | ATC Radio Basics for Pilots

[@jameshunley6801]

Air traffic controller here. All information in this video is absolutely spot on. I would highlight, if you are unfamiliar or unsure of what we want you to do, or even the layout of the airport, just let us know you are unfamiliar early in the transmission. It will switch us from our normal traffic bearing mode to a more focused, almost nurturing mode. Sometimes you will get controllers who will get frustrated. Just do your best to understand and comply with their instructions while letting them know what you don't understand. Also sticking to standard phraseology is best. a lot of the time we don't have much time for pleasantries sadly.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you for sharing that, and it's great advice. I've told people that same thing over the years, but people are still worried and intimidated.

[@jcmecatronica]

ATC. This is Julio from Brazil South. 2100ft. training for one day maybe bem a pilot. ATC

[@iahflyr4690]

As a retired controller what James wrote is completely correct. When I'd go to pilot meetings I always stressed to CFI's to let the student talk on the radio so when the CFI is not in the plane the pilot won't be afraid to communicate with us. Quite often I'd get the ire of a few CFI's as if I was telling them how to instruct their students....LOL, couldn't be farther from the truth.

[@AnangryLibertarian]

It was amazing how much easier it gets after you get the first few mistakes out of the way and realize that it's OK. You start to realize how simple it is. The fear just comes from the pressure you put on yourself. This is good. It means you care, and will end up being a good pilot.

[@flywiththeguys]

Its SO true. Thanks for sharing the perspective.

[@jimmysalt8825]

Nice words

[@couttsie]

i don’t know why i found this reassuring, i have no flying hours and no experience in anything ATC related, but it sure was reassuring. lol

[@Zonday88]

The fear for me comes from the speed At which I'm given instruction

[@BeakerSteve]

Air traffic controller here. In my training, I've learned to know what I say before I speak up. That ensures there's no confusion on frequency and it helps pilots feel secure knowing their controller knows what he's doing. I think that's equally as important for pilots. While reading back initial instructions may be difficult for new pilots, know your intentions first, then call up. It'll help reduce congestion on frequency. Also, don't be too nervous and feel like ATC is going to attack you. I work in a very busy Delta. I'd rather be asked to repeat my instructions than have someone readback blindly and cause a conflict. If you don't understand, just ask. Your safety is our job. Great video!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you for sharing that! And as a pilot I appreciate it!

[@ajs1691]

Great advice, thanks. I'm a student pilot operating from an uncontrolled field and my RT needs a lot of work. I have started practising in my car on the way to the airfield! My Instructor said the same, prepare what you are going to say, don't be afraid to use the word 'correction', and if in doubt ASK.

[@BeakerSteve]

@@ajs1691 agreed, and no will get after you for getting it wrong. At least say it with confidence and it will make it easier for ATC to correct you

[@bunglejoy3645]

I'd be all right using a radio when i was about 18 years old many years ago mow I did a college work placement with the paramedics that's where Ifirst geard bout phonetic alphabet and its funny I've got very bad mental heslth issues working memory not great but I remember phonetic alphabet but when I had a go sith radio their control didn't understand me I didn't realise my accent was so strong when I now make a video on my mobile to help my care team know how my mental health is I cringe because it's a strong accent like he's said I was too eager to get it right anxious didn't realise then I was autistic and had a executive brain function disorder do would nevervfly or get anywhere near a plane but my sewing teacher at college said if you ever learn to drive and see her anywhere don't drop to give me a lift I'd be a nervous wreck before we arrived at our destination she said bear in mind this was just a sewing machine if I saw put your foot on pedal she said you do very shaky and cautious she said if I tell you to do it gently she said needle goes up and down at 90 mile an hour so imagine if I tried to learn to drive a car not a pretty site I think my first plan would have yo be life insurance pre arrange my funeral have lock down back so no traffic on road believe you mecif air passengers were already panicking when thed gad ne for ten minutes the fright would kill everyone

[@sheath3941]

My lord, this comment section is purely positive vibes. After scrolling for a while, still haven't seen a single remotely negative comment. That's how I like to see it! But honestly, with a really good video like this it should be positive.

[@flywiththeguys]

=) Thanks for your kind comment!

[@Kruuga]

I'm a fresh student pilot and have yet to speak with ground/atc. Radio comms are something I have been intimidated to do but this video helped me ease my nerves and definitely broke it down in a way I could understand. I'd subscribe to your channel twice if I could. Thanks!!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helped!!!

[@samtheking5759]

ATC is like the doctors handwriting of speech lol

[@flywiththeguys]

I whole heartedly agree with this!

[@razackjohny]

😂

[@crystalb6428]

😂😂😂😂facts

[@alenzo24]

The best analogy I've ever heard, haha!

[@Mooney201er]

Part 2: talking to ATC like a pro. Preface your initial contact with good morning, good afternoon, or good evening. It shows them you are on your game and know what time of day it is.

[@flywiththeguys]

Good call. Accept I have a trade mark of saying good morning almost all day…. This isn’t going to end well.

[@gagegardnaaa2512]

Honestly if its busy we don't want to hear this. Just get to the point where you are. Nothing rude just sometimes we have a lot to say in a short amount of time.

[@heavysighs]

As a controller in the NE corridor for 36 years (ZDC), I’d prefer standard phraseology. Plain words work best in emergencies. And please, stay off of 121.5 unless you have an emergency. You’d be surprised what some pilots do. The controller is ultimately responsible for frequency management. Being a good listener is better than a good speaker. Just don’t be nervous. If you practice your phraseology, you’ll be less nervous. Reverse read-backs are nice. above all - USE YOUR CALLSIGN - full callsign is best. A read-back without you aircraft ID is useless and does not count. We do not use voice recognition. Good video.

[@danieljones5843]

@@heavysighs thank you!! I’m a student pilot and haven’t talked to atc yet but was told by my cfi I had to start practicing. I’m watching every video and reading all the comments.

[@heavysighs]

@@danieljones5843 You can do it. And after about 50 times, you’ll be so proud of yourself that you basically learned a new language! I used to practice out loud in my car, by talking to myself, as both ATC and the pilot. Good luck to you. Most important, remember to have fun.

[@DC-nc6vt]

This is rock solid advice. What helped me get comfortable was getting a scanner and listening to ground, tower and then ATC. Really helped with solo work and my checkride.

[@flywiththeguys]

Agreed. We recommend listening to liveatc.net and watching on Flightradar24. The delay for both is about the same, and you can hear and watch planes.

[@johnniess7914]

Whoever disliked this was on the wrong frequency

[@flywiththeguys]

Agreed. LOL

[@aztecwarrior6138]

Love your comment lol!

[@vincent_v1094]

Definitely

[@tomasprince209]

Nice shot!

[@virenor]

I disliked this video. I already wasted 16 minutes watching another of his videos, where he didn't explain like a half of the terms used in his own examples. Here I stopped after 5 minutes, when I heard exactly the same basic informations again, and still no details. I'm done. I bet guy is payed by hour.

[@grene1955]

I recently retired, and am just starting to go for my PPL to finish what I started in high school...yes, it was a long time ago! The biggest hurdle for me is understanding ATC. This video was fantastically helpful, so a big thank you!

[@flywiththeguys]

We're glad it was able to help! Checkout our playlists over on the channel page, we have a lot of videos for different airspaces, as well as other tools to help.

[@Mike-cs9jr]

One very helpful suggestion for student pilots is to mention that fact when making the initial calls. Controllers are generally very accommodating and understanding and will slow down their speech if needed.

[@flywiththeguys]

This is a true and verified statement.

[@RoscoeMcGillicuddy]

So many things to say here: 01) I really appreciate this and all of your videos. Talking with ATC is my current struggle in Instrument training. This helps tremendously, so thank you. 02) I used to live in Phoenix, near Peoria. If I had a nickel for every time I drove past Deer Valley, I'd be rich. I miss it out west. 03) I am SO GLAD you pronounced "Prescott, AZ" as "PRESS-cot." When I lived in PHX there were so many people insisting is was pronounced "press-KITT," and I basically told them I would never be pronouncing it like that myself, and people would just have to deal with that. haha

[@flywiththeguys]

Probably stems from my brother named Scott. =) Glad you're enjoying the videos!

[@rossdax47]

Not a pilot, not in training to be a pilot, but love the break down! Thanks for making it so simple! :)

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching Ross!

[@perogarcia6531]

🍟

[@goatman86]

I guess You and me are here for this one unlikely scenario when we have to land the plane because the pilot is unable to.

[@PlusNeu]

Same, I just enjoy listening to the protocolar convos.

[@stevek4408]

Hated towers when I was learning to fly in Minnesota. Avoided them completely for several years after getting my PPL. When Deer Valley became my home airport, I spent 3 days listening to the radio traffic just trying to figure out what I needed to say and do to be safe. This little video would have removed much anxiety all those 22 years ago Carl. Nice update to your original mega-video on ATC interaction. This is good for pilots that haven’t flown into a controlled airport in awhile also. Lots of those headed for Oshkosh soon.🤞🙏🙏🙏

[@flywiththeguys]

DIdn't even think of that. for some its the only time they call up ATC. LOL

[@jakejones5736]

Complete opposite, I received my training near LAX. Thus I learned out the gate radio communications. And believe me there are plenty of controllers in the area.

[@greensphinx]

Is MN ATC that bad? I'm going to learn to fly at either KFCM or KLVN.

[@angatuedward6580]

I worked in Airfield operations and I must admit this video is wonderful.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you very much!

[@rustyclam238]

When I was getting ready to learn to fly, I had a radio that I could listen to ATC at Palm Beach International air port early in the morning when I was getting ready for work. It realty helped.

[@flywiththeguys]

I used to listen at our observation deck. It does help, especially if you know the basics. Helps you understand whats going on.

[@foesfly3047]

I can't imagine any way to improve this presentation. It is truly outstanding. Thank you.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@Venti1388]

I agree it’s really interesting and I’ve not seen it broken down like this before :-) As a training designer, I think it would be even better if you had a table that followed each breakdown, showing the words from the video next to what you just said it was, just so that we can map it all back to the thing we first saw. I don’t know if that’s tricky on video editing software but even something like “Who you are talking to > Deer Valley Ground etc” would just help to consolidate it.

[@japeyelnoc3276]

Been working in military flight sim for ages, but incorporating ATC is very new in sims and I know nothing about it. I'm a test engineer so I need to develop test procedures to confirm the AI is doing what it should. Thanks for the break down - I can tell I'll be watching a lot of your videos over the coming months. Thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Welcome to the channel. Also, check out pilotedge. They offer real ATC for sims.

[@Bmarch01]

Flight service station specialist here. Everything is presented great. One more tip as a pilot and working on the other side of the communication end. The initial contact is better when the pilot just states the call sign and nothing more. Some controllers might be working multiple frequencies and other aircraft that you can’t hear. Sometimes if you give the 5w’s on the initial, it can be information overload when handling other aircraft. After the initial contact is established, you should have the full attention of controller or flight service person. Then apply the rest of the w’s. All in all I think the video was great and should be helpful for fellow aviators.

[@SpicyFaceActual]

I think this depends on a lot of factors. In busy airspace some controllers appreciate it when you spit out as much info as you can in one transmission so they can give you instructions and move on. They don’t always have time to play 20 questions. That being said, some also appreciate doing it like you’ve mentioned. It just depends. I think pilots will eventually get to know the habits of the controllers in the airspace they frequent. Find out what they like, take some tours and ask questions!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for the comment Brian, and you're totally right! Thats how I contact a FSS as well. And Murph is right to! Our airfield is an up front kind of place, but I know the class bravo by me like GA to do what you said. This video was meant to be more of a peptalk to student pilots and guys getting back in the air, but I really should make one on other types of communication. I love hearing comments from the other side so seriously, thank you for the comment!

[@kellysooth602]

This is the best video on the topic. If you still don’t know what to do. Just rewatch the video again

[@flywiththeguys]

Agreed. We actually have a whole playlist for all classes too. Accept A... I need to do that one. =)

[@ezsim1111]

WOW! Thank you for pointing out how easy this gets as you go!

[@flywiththeguys]

You are so welcome!

[@matth4745]

All new pilots should see this. Great video folks.

[@flywiththeguys]

We agree! It's a great little lesson to start off with! Or a good refresher. =)

[@brandenjones9970]

I have such a passion for avionics I absolutely feel like I NEED to fly, just found this channel gonna start learning while I save money to learn. Thank you thank you, very well done video I'm here to stay.

[@georgesmith3325]

Good job here. I would add that as a student pilot flying solo, please let ATC know you are a “ solo student pilot”. Then they will know and it will be much easier for you. They will speak slower and not ask anything complicated of you.

[@flywiththeguys]

It's almost a cheat code! Thanks for sharing. =)

[@sarahgilliss3503]

Wow! Awesome video! I'm a native Arizonan in Glendale that's been a lifelong aeronautics enthusiast and has always wanted to learn how to "speak pilot" (as a hobby for now...maybe consider becoming an ATC someday), and this helped me!

[@flywiththeguys]

Very cool! Good luck in all that!

[@_planejoe_]

This is going to be a huge help as I begin my flight training this week!

[@scsmithphoto]

Get the mobile phone app he mentions. It helps a ton!

[@flywiththeguys]

Yes, get the plane english app. It helps A LOT. Info in the description on it, but we'll be doing a how to get good at them video this week! Good luck on your flight training!

[@ethanstinnett1923]

Good 🤞

[@CascadiaAviation]

Cool, how’s it going so far man?

[@homomorphic]

Correct, but missing something important, and that is that the flying is easy (yes, even takeoffs and landings) when everything is nominal. When a take off or landing isn't nominal you have to execute on your training and suddenly flying becomes very hard. Obviously, training can never simulate the type of things that can go wrong, so get yourself a good simulator set up for home and use it to practice all the stuff that could likely kill you IRL and practice it over and over. This is a never ending thing. You should spend at least 2 hours a week in the sim with randomized failure conditions for the rest of your flying career. That is what will keep you alive (of course, you should still practice things like stalls and spins IRL, but the sim is great for all sorts of rando. engine and airframe anomalies).

[@AydynlynnPeak]

As a student pilot this was beyond helpful!

[@flywiththeguys]

Awesome! Glad to hear it!

[@NW255]

I’m not a pilot but I work at a major international airport and I need radio training to cross movement areas this was a big help thanks !

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helps! Thanks for watching!

[@jpjpjp5847]

Great video. Only different thing my CFI told me was on initial connect to ground before take off, and on initial contact to tower coming in, just say, "xxx ground, Skyhawk xxxx." ATC might be too busy to take down your full request. Now, I did my training in class delta, and could just have been the preference of my local ATC as well. But at times it seems like it was busier than LaGuardia. I was once once fifth for takeoff!

[@flywiththeguys]

I've talked with our controllers back when things were crazy at Deer Valley. At that time we were #18 busiest airport in the nation based off operations. Literally 1200+ per day. Here's what they told me, they prefer you say everything at once on initial contact. The problem with how your instructor taught you is it actually takes more of the controllers time communicating back and forth. Now if there really busy and miss your call for some reason, they'll just ask you to say again. BUT, they're great multitaskers and masters of coordination. I've only had a few times in all my flying they didn't catch me on the first call, no matter what D or C airport I fly to. Now, what your instructor taught you isn't wrong. It's just one of many ways to do the same thing. However, I do that when I'm contacting class bravo controllers for transition or landing. They're just as busy, but they're giving priority to jet traffic. I could give it all up front, but once I say Cessna or piper to them, they know I'm slow moving traffic and have time to finish other calls before getting back to me. But thats the only time I contact initially with only the first 2 W's. OH! And I hear you on the #5 for take off thing. We have a north and south runway. The south runway was the crazy one. I've got pictures of 15+ planes waiting to take off, and I've been cleared #6 to land many a times.

[@jpjpjp5847]

@@flywiththeguys Thanks for the great reply! I'm only at about 120 hours and still learning. We do have a great ATC crew at KLNS.

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

I always picked up the instruments right away. Trust them and would rather use them even though I'm not a pilot. I have flown with fellow works who would let me fly for an hour with no problems. I just can't get the hang of ATC. It just blows my mind and it's always like listening to an auctioneer.This is the only explanation I have ever hear and it makes sense. Not I'm only 75% confused I believe I could fly by instrument because I don't like to trust my eyes. Been a gps junkie for over 20+ years. Always trust the off road direction and altimeter. I have also flown in a trainer plane with the joysticks. That was different. Thanks so much. want to learn more and better. 😁😁

[@LuisAguilar-cl1vw]

I have communication with pilots, I mean ground to flightdeck communication. Amazing to speak and understand those words you mentioned in this video. Really good thing to get knowledge.

[@flywiththeguys]

That is awesome!

[@OneKindWord]

That’s a beautiful propeller on your wall. I have one from my husband on my living room wall. My husband loved that it’s 100% airworthy.

[@stevequincey1217]

Outstanding! Just need to watch this 20 more times and maybe I'll feel comfortable. Love the channel.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thats a lot of times. LOL. Checkout the playlist though. We have a LOT of videos on talking to ATC in all kinds of airspace. =)

[@guillelite7385]

I can finally play VATSIM, thank so much for making this BANGER video

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem!

[@suznsyarro2846]

Your vlog helps a lot. My only child is in grade 8 and he needs this inspiration 'coz he is dreaming to work as ATC since he is a young lad. He loves what you shared here sir , thanks -from the Philippines Jared C. Arroyo

[@mwelter4312]

I worked at DVT ATCT in the eighties when the tower was on the south side of the field. The new tower really looks nice. Hope the air conditioner works better in that one.

[@flywiththeguys]

LOL. It does. I've been up there a few times. Nice location, and i've seen pictures of that old tower, they were in the restaurant before it closed down.

[@Fkujoeb123]

THANK YOU! First flight tomorrow so watching this a few more times!!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@88rollins]

Went flying with a good friend that owns a plane. Listening to the radio transmissions during takeoff, landing, and taxi process really confused me and was intimidating. Watching this video confirmed to me I'm not pilot material. Great information though- thanks for posting!

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem! Thanks for watching it. =)

[@larsthorwald3338]

This is cool. I don't fly and have no desire to fly--even as a passenger--but the pilot-ATC chatter is fascinating. Thanks for helping me demystify it.

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem!

[@stardogegaming5627]

VTOL VR community here. Thanks for making GFA servers easier.

[@jimbroaudio]

I'm studying everything I can about piloting for a script I'm writing, so this is going to really come in handy. Thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Good luck!

[@gerardoppewal372]

I am a private pilot in Europe. I read how happy people are with this video and how hard it is to 'get the hang' of ATC lingo. True enough. But HERE you have to do a RT theory course, a RT practice course and you have to get a Level 4(at least 4, 6 preferred) Language Proficiency Endorsement to even be allowed to operate the radio. Yet nobody here mentions that. I wonder why...

[@flywiththeguys]

I think we used to have to do that a long time ago, but that sounds like it's a lot better than just throwing people into the fire.

[@TheRealJohnMadden]

I absolutely love the breakdown of this type of communication. My dad is a pilot who primarily flies Cessna's and it always boggled me what he was saying. I always wish I could become a pilot too, but it seems like it costs a lot of money.

[@daniel_of_jersey4775]

A good local flight school can get you to your privat license under 12k. But that doesnt make sense unless you own a plane via family since its expensive to rent. Im starting training with the next week but i plan to go through private all the way to instrument certified instructor so i can actually make money off of it. Otherwise its a rich mans hobby

[@flywiththeguys]

Check the channel page for tips on getting your license. There are ways to get it cheaper. I was able to get mine for around 5000. I'll agree it's expensive though. Now that we're rebuilding a plane on the channel, I can attest to just how expensive it really is!

[@Fkujoeb123]

@@flywiththeguyshow? Barter? Lol

[@andrewvillela1135]

Bro youre a lifesaver getting ready for my first solo xc !!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Awesome! Let us know how it goes!

[@TheRisible]

just started flight school about 3 weeks ago. flying at kfmy in fort myers florida sometimes the taxi directions are kind of complicated and its hard for me to pick up everything in one go and respond quickly. this video helps thank you.

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helps! Our airport got a new taxiway a few years ago, on the side of the airport I don't fly out of very often. Even I get all messed up when I've given directions. I write them down and read them back. THEN I figure out how they wanted me to get there.

[@19ij]

Useful video for student pilots, good job! Yesterday I passed my checkride from second attempt (first time my short and soft field landings was not good). Your channel really helps people, thank you.

[@flywiththeguys]

Congratulations! And thanks for your kind words. That's exactly what we try to do around here.

[@1acym460]

I just took my first discovery flight earlier today at my local Class D airport, won't be another 2 years at least until I can get my license but this will absolutely be helpful. Thank you so much, watching from STX

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem and good luck on your aviation journey!

[@flywiththeguys]

Did you notice my mistakes!? I got in a bad habit of shortening my call sign when closing my communications before ATC did. Never really been called out for it because I always started with my full call sign, but that doesn't make it right. I even say in the video don't do it, but then I did... Regardless, some of you guys are noticing and calling me out for it. NICE CATCH! Even though I don't like making mistakes, especially in videos that are meant to help people, it's good for everyone in the long run. I'm not going to get into the why, or give excuses, but I have changed my ways since this video. Be better than me guys and fly safe!

[@charleslaine]

Just an anectdote regarding what you said at 9:58... Way back in 1987 I was working on my PPL. I don't remember the exact circumstances other than the rough outlines because its been so long. I was in a Cessna 152, N25324 to be precise. A huge C5 Galaxy was using the runway for what I guess was training, because the runways were too short for a C5 at the Waco regional airport. I was given instructions to climb above and go around as the C5 made its approach. I ended up flying directly over the C5 as it made its pass over the runway to depart the area. It was just mind boggling to look down out of the window of my tiny little C152 and there's this massive cargo jet directly beneath me.

[@popefrancis9756]

did my first request for vfr flight following today, this series should help me thankyou

[@flywiththeguys]

Nice. Last time I asked for FF I told phoenix where I was and they were confused. They had me IDENT and said "Oh your 30 NM north of us" I shook my head because thats what I had told them 3 times already.

[@THE-michaelmyers]

I have been an instrument-rated private pilot SEL for close to 35 years now. I have close to 4000 hours. I guess over the years I have been in almost every traffic a pilot can encounter. I have logged landings in Atlanta, Boston, Memphis, Houston, and Dallas Love field. I have had to declare an Emergency in IMC after my vacuum pump failed. My first CFI taught me about the use of that radio early on. If I can get my meaning across in 50 words use 30. Never argue with a controller about anything. Stay nice. This is actually my pet peeve about ATC, too many of the controllers are on power trips and talk down to pilots, thankfully the US airspace system has VERY FEW of these types. I once got into it with a tower on an airport on the east coast. I held my fire until I got on the ground and went right to the tower asking for a supervisor. Just as if a pilot screws up and gets that instruction to call the tower, well that controller was yanked off the console and retrained, and he finally quit a while later. In my years of flying, I guess I have spoken with maybe thousands of controllers from Towers to Tracons all the way to ARTCC controllers and flight service stations. Almost all of them were nice and some even bent over backward to help. I remember one day a mistake was made with my Jep-San approach plates. I was in some serious IFR and made a mistake by not checking for those destination plates. It was missing. I had no idea what the ILS freq was. I had no idea what the ATIS was. I was not going to be able to legally make that approach, so the INDY Center controller made a suggestion about another Airport. I had that plate. Don't fear ATC, be nice and communicate with them in a clear voice. If they are wrong and cause you issues, make note of the time and report the controller.

[@flywiththeguys]

I've heard of a couple pilots having to report someone, multiple times. One of our local airports is privatized so they don't care. But the FAA ones, yea.... they get held accountable just like pilots. Thanks for your comment! I'm sure it'll help others.

[@THE-michaelmyers]

@@flywiththeguys Just to be clear, as far as I know, all ATC communications are recorded. A controller puts you or your aircraft in danger FOIA those tapes and scream bloody murder!

[@supercoolmunkee]

Started flying in Microsoft Flight Simulator. This makes so much more sense now! Thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helped!

[@geoffreyrussell442]

I started to learn to fly in 2018 after I retired. It was something I had wanted to do all my life but I just could not get a handle on radio coms. Eventually, it turned something that was great fun into a whole bucket of stress, so I stopped flying after 34 hours and 70-odd landings. I fly out of Van Nuys, a very busy Class D near Los Angeles. If you can master the radio there, you can fly anywhere! Flying is sublime! I can't wait to get back in the air. This time, I will work on managing the stress, even if it means that I become a perpetual student.

[@flywiththeguys]

We made a follow up video to that where we talk about PlaneEnglish. Check it out, it really helps! - kzbin.info/www/bejne/sH2zl5SqZcmArKs

[@geoffreyrussell442]

@@flywiththeguys I checked it out and it looks great. Just what I need!

[@simonmanning619]

I’m about to start training out of Torrance, I feel you

[@BucksBirdBarn]

I'm learning to fly at an uncontrolled airport. Thanks for the video, its a good starting point and supplement to my online ground school

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helped!

[@Jeffrey-Flys]

I like to say.. “Hey tower! Guess who… and you’re never gonna guess where I am.”

[@Jeffrey-Flys]

Or my second favorite…. “Knock, Knock..”

[@flywiththeguys]

You'll like this then.... - instagram.com/p/CDACxa0Br95/?

[@foesfly3047]

Hahahahaha!

[@jeffersonthemagnifcent]

Hahahahha

[@mr.jds-_-]

Last time I talked to the atc, I hadn't flown in almost 2 months and I was so nervous. I told my instructor that I would not have been comfortable talking to ATC that day because of how i hadn't flown in so long but he insisted that I took all the calls. The nervousness caused me to tell ATC wrong directions and intentions and i forgot to give my callsign in about 2 calls. I didn't even notice until my instructor asked me if I realized what I had done and ATC asking for verification. My flying was terrible too since I froze under the radios. It was as though I had never flown a plane in my entire life. We had circuits and I couldn't even land the plane properly. It was a total disaster. Only on the way back to school I was able to fly properly since he handled the radios and all I had to worry about is flying the plane. Looking back at it now, I laugh at it because I've already crossed that hurdle.

[@flywiththeguys]

Yea. It can be really intimidating at first. The PPT really is the brain disconnect button for new pilots. =) Thanks for sharing though! It's stuff like that that lets others know there not alone.

[@Flying_Snakes]

I like to use "negative contact", "tally", and request "vfr advisories" simply because it feels more professional and is brief. Many other pilots don't know what I'm saying, but the controllers do, lol.

[@cpt.timothy4608]

Thank you! I'm getting VATSIM ready.

[@flywiththeguys]

This video helps in there too!

[@kaine2416]

I'm looking into flight schools now and the hardest part of radio traffic for me is going to be separating different SOPs. I'm a HAM operator and LEO so using the radio doesn't bother me. But there's different operating procedures for each and I can see myself getting them confused. I already get standard NATO and police phonetics mixed up at work and in my ham shack and occasionally sound like a goofball lol! I can hear myself accidentally using ten-codes during flight... 🙄😂 "Hey Deer valley ground, I'm a Cessna!" 😂

[@flywiththeguys]

LoL. We’ll, check out our channel page. We have a great video on how to pick a flight school. LOTS of good information in there.

[@goldboy3505]

Controller here. This is a great information. 👍🏾

[@tfogelson3139]

Was in the Army NG at Papago AAF and was the Observer on OH-58 and did the majority of the radio calls. Sky Harbor to get and out of Papago. Deer Valley when we were practicing autorotations. Liked the military towers the best. Not as busy and better radios.

[@flywiththeguys]

Deer Valley hasn't rebounded since COVID. Its much more pleasant to fly out of there now. =)

[@jzaviation]

I'm 10 and watching this stuff i have my notebook and I'm taking notes thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Awesome. Have fun!

[@JaneDoe-ci3gj]

A very good video. I think it's impressive how well it all works! The air traffic controllers are impressive as well!

[@yaksnacks2466]

LOVE this video. SO helpful, my goodness I am a student pilot and so intimidated by ATC. It is the scariest part of being a student pilot for me. Also, at 11:23 that bolt really be wiggling!!

[@flywiththeguys]

I saw that when I was editing it. It's been fixed since! Well... we've gotten a whole new cowling since.

[@bistelchung]

the video is really dopppe although im still a high school student, i started to listen to the atc radio and im really into this now. i can finally understand what they are talking about. ur video helps me a lot. thanks mate u slay me, u really do🔥

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@dustinengel4852]

This was awesome, just did a discovery flight last weekend!

[@HecMangual]

Thank you for the video! I would love to learn how to fly, but talking on the radios seems intimidating. Now that you broke it down for us, I would feel more comfortable

[@flywiththeguys]

You can do it! Its a lot easier once you understand whats going on.

[@jeanyvesbenoist2085]

Pretty good brief explained procedure, really appreciated l am a simmer with vatsim network

[@pingpongun8519]

I remember my first radio communication. I totally botched it and skipped several words, but got the information out there and so i impressed the instructor because apperantly students are ususlly even worse. But in my head i was scared of talking too long, and therefore tried to make it as short as possible and that resulted in skipping a lot of the words, so instead of speaking in sentances i basicly said something like «Tecnam 2002, juliet, oscar, 34, taxi, runway, 12, to takeoff.» (This was uncontrolled airport and i don’t actually remember the correct callsign so this is just an example) But in this case i got the basic information out there, but nobody knew where i was, and nobody knew which taxiway i would go for, and i was actually suppose to say i would hold short of it, but in my head i would taxi to the runway, but not on the runway right. Anyway, like i said, botched it because i wanted to make it short, but now i have understood that i don’t have to stress about making it short, because the necessary information is already short enough. Just calm down and say it in a speed that makes you able to remember it all and speak clearly at the same time.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing that and great advice!

[@kimberlywentworth9160]

I am flying out of a very busy Class Charlie airport. The radio is much more difficult at this airport. They talk super fast because they have to. It's packed at this airport and you are given so many different instructions. You could be cleared for the option such as touch N Go's and when when I was on short approach ATC stated that I must do a full stop.

[@flywiththeguys]

I understand that completely. When I got my certificate at DVT it was in the top 20 busiest airports by traffic in the nation. We saw about 460,000 operations, beating out our own Sky Harbor international airport. It takes time, but you start to know what they're going to say.

[@joecastro2153]

Hi There Guys!! Tks for all your videos!! I’m getting ready for my check ride and I’ve learned a lot on this videos you guys make!! Blessings

[@flywiththeguys]

Our pleasure! Good luck and let us know how it goes!

[@joecastro2153]

@@flywiththeguys definitely 👏🏻👏🏻

[@BroncePerez]

This was great as I commence my flight school training.

[@flywiththeguys]

Great! Glad it helped.

[@1p2a3d4d5y]

Glad I've found your videos! Just what i needed! Thank you.

[@flywiththeguys]

We're glad too!

[@Captain_Aziz]

I am using IVAO to develop myself in msfs2020 thanks Carl 😍

[@flywiththeguys]

Good luck! We're doing a FS2020 live stream today., =)

[@Captain_Aziz]

@@flywiththeguys nice 😊

[@Lolboy30]

i'm just a random dude who watches vasavoation sometimes.. thanks a lot for this video!

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem! Glad it helped. 😁

[@nal2us2]

Thank you sooooo very much for this awesome video. This video is something I refer to every now and then as a refresher. Forget being a pilot.... you need to be a teacher because...well..... your a great one!!!! Kudos again on the great video!!!!!!!!!!!

[@flywiththeguys]

We're glad it helps! And thank you for your kind comment! We're working towards more education too. =)

[@steveimran2451]

Thanks man for those options Learn a lot Yes man human can make mistakes We should work as a Team like always

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helped!

[@steveimran2451]

I work also at the airport Doing refueling of Helicopters and Aircraft

[@scodavis]

I noticed a couple goofs (unless they were the result of editing). When you received your taxi instructions, they said 75600, but you responded with just 600. When you received your takeoff clearance, tower also used 75600 and you responded with 600. I found this rather interesting, since later in the video you correctly stated that you only use the abbreviation when they do.

[@flywiththeguys]

I did make several edits to the calls, to make them more basic for the video. BUT, I have made a bad habit of closing with my abbreviated call sign. And not even that, it should have included Cessna as well. I know how and why I got into this habit, but it doesn't make it right by the book especially when I'm making an informational video to help others. Whats interesting is the places I fly in and out of don't care all that much and have never corrected me. Good catch though.

[@menkiguo7805]

So helpful. I am not flying a real plane but just play msfs but it's still useful and cool

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad to hear it!

[@k-pilot.1416]

My home airport is KPRC and I just went to deer valley airport and Payson airport for my solo long cross country✌️ nice to see you

[@flywiththeguys]

Well hello there! Sounds like a nice cross country. Did you stop for a burger in Payson. I'm rather fond of them.

[@shedroids]

Wow... that was scary, lol! Seems like the flying part is easier than rattling all that information! Sometimes I couldn't understand a thing they called from air traffic control, haha! I don't fly but was curious! Intimidating for sure!!! Awesome presentation, thank you!

[@flywiththeguys]

It can be, but most controllers are friendly for the most part. Thanks for watching it!

[@shedroids]

@@flywiththeguys Fly safe always!!

[@richardharrold4357]

I'm a few years out of practice. Once you talk to tc a few times it seems to come naturally. IAD was the worst experience I had flying. Went to a plane pull.

[@flywiththeguys]

Yea, exposure always helps!

[@LucidDreamsShorts]

Not even a pilot, but now I know how to talk to ATC!

[@flywiththeguys]

Understanding whats going on helps a lot!

[@4viationCentral]

@@flywiththeguyshey this is me on a different account, 4 months later. I’m now a student pilot.

[@flywiththeguys]

@@4viationCentral Well look at that! Congrats on taking the plunge. =) What made you decided to do it?

[@4viationCentral]

@@flywiththeguys noticed how much I loved aviation, and booked a discovery flight! I loved it, and booked another flight! So right now, since I’m only 13, I’m doing 1 lesson per month until I’m 16, then the price decreases (no instructor cost) and hopefully get my license when I’m 17

[@jackriley5974]

I learned to fly out of a 1000 foot grass strip in the woods 50 years ago and never got used to tower talk. It still sounds like the controllers are getting paid by the word. As a recreational pilot in a small single engine aircraft, I never needed to know all of what was conveyed by ATC!

[@flywiththeguys]

I hear ya, but since I trained at a controlled airport I'm so used to it I'm more intimidated flying into uncontrolled.

[@RCAFpolarexpress]

You are the best of THE BEST Sir 👍😇👌🍻

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks! Glad you liked it.

[@jdjd256]

Very good video and tips. Thank you very much for making it so simple. - Student Pilot from North East!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helped. Check out the channels playlist for all our ATC guides. We have a bunch, and some for each airspace.

[@mitchham351]

I’m looking to become a pilot and this video really helped! Thanks! 🙏🏼

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad I could help!

[@jonb4020]

This was REALLY useful! Many thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem! I'm glad it helped!!!

[@mahzan2948]

Thank you so much for this great video, I have learned a lot form it, great explanation, presentation and simple to understand, good job, waiting for your following video's.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you! Glad you got something out of it. =)

[@jakew9887]

Great Video. Can't wait for the follow-up video's. Thanks

[@flywiththeguys]

Writing the next one now.

[@dwighttaylor5107]

Amazing content

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you!

[@moniquemcpherson6927]

The best example of communicating with ATC is when Sully lost his engines and was told to turn back to Laguardia, and he said, "unable."..

[@flywiththeguys]

I should tell ATC that the next time they tell me I can land....

[@naturallyherb]

I suggest watching Pilot Emilie's video on this similar topic! How she also takes brief notes on ATC instructions is really helpful! (she's a Q400 pilot)

[@flywiththeguys]

I've seen that one! We've also got videos specific to each airspace. =) Dedicated video to taking down clearances soon!

[@alexagha-khan4538]

excellent presentation, very helpful...!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it helped!

[@expectnothing.]

I’m about to start training with Aeroguard at Deer valley 🤘

[@flywiththeguys]

Good luck! I drive by them ALL THE TIME.

[@MarioGonzalez-cu4sf]

YOU ARE THE BEST. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK

[@flywiththeguys]

Will do! Thanks for watching!

[@PinkBabyDoll]

This was so informative. Thank you for this video

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Bewwy_overload]

I’m thinking of maybe getting my pilot license I just hope I learn everything without giving up

[@flywiththeguys]

We have videos on the common reason, and TONS on how to get through it all. =) Check the channel page for help.

[@DixitManish]

Lots of useful information in here, thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching. =)

[@billquillin1952]

Excellent refresher!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks!