Section 3. Radio Communications
4-3-1. FREQUENCY USE
a. Use radio frequencies for the specific purposes
for which they are assigned. A frequency may be used
for more than one function when required. Use the
minimum number of frequencies to conduct
communications. Request pilots file flight plans on
discrete frequencies when possible.
b. Monitor assigned radio frequencies continu-
ously. Keep speaker volumes at a level sufficient to
hear all transmissions.
4-3-2. AUTHORIZED TRANSMISSIONS
a. Transmit only those messages necessary for
safe and efficient use of the National Airspace System
(NAS).
1. Relay operational information to an aircraft
or its company, as requested, when abnorm al
conditions necessitate such requests. Do not agree to
handle such messages on a regular basis.
2. Relay official FAA messages as required.
b. Inform an aircraft of the source of any message
you relay from an airport manager, a military
commander, or other appropriate authority.
c. Use the words or phrases in radio communica-
tions as contained in the Pilot/Controller Glossary.
4-3-3. RADIO MESSAGE FORMAT
Initiate radio communications with an aircraft by
using the following format:
a. Initial call up.
1. State the prefix “November” when establish-
ing initial communications with U.S. Registered
aircraft followed by the phonetic pronunciation of the
numbers/letters of the aircraft registration.
2. Identification of the calling unit.
3. The type of message to follow when this will
assist the pilot.
4. The word over, if required.
EXAMPLE“November Three Four Seven Seven Papa, Fort Worth
Radio, over.”
“November Three Four Seven Seven Papa, Fort Worth
Radio, A-T-C clearance, over.”
b. Replying to call up from aircraft.
1. Identification of the aircraft initiating the call
up. Use the full identification in reply to aircraft with
similar sounding identifications. For other aircraft,
use the same identification the pilot used in initial call
up; then use the correct identification after
communications have been established.
2. Identification of the replying unit.
3. The word over, if required.
c. The word heavy shall be used as part of the
identification in communications with or about
heavy jet aircraft when providing airport advisories.
PHRASEOLOGY-
UNITED FIFTY-EIGHT HEAVY
NOTE1. Most airlines will use the word heavy following the
company prefix and trip number when establishing
communications or when changing frequencies.
2. When in radio-telephone communications with “Air
Force One,” do not add the heavy designator to the call
sign. State only the call sign “Air Force One” regardless
of the type of aircraft.
d. Preface a clearance or instruction intended for
a specific aircraft with the identification of that
aircraft.
e. Emphasize appropriate digits, letters, or similar
sounding words to aid in distinguishing between
similar sounding aircraft identifications. Additional-
ly, notify each pilot concerned when communicating
with aircraft having similar sounding identifications.
EXAMPLE“American Five Twenty-one and American Twenty-one,
transmissions being made to each of you on this
frequency.”
“Advisory to Cessna One Three Two Four, transmissions
to Cessna One Two Three Four also being made on this
frequency.”
4-3-4. ABBREVIATED TRANSMISSION
Transmissions may be abbreviated as follows:
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-3-2 Radio Communications
a. Use the identification prefix and the last three
digits or letters of the aircraft identification after
communications have been established and type of
aircraft is known. Do not abbreviate similar sounding
aircraft identifications or the identification of an air
carrier or other civil aircraft having an FAA
authorized call sign.
b. Omit the facility identification after commu-
nication has been established.
c. Transmit the message immediately after the
callup (without waiting for the aircraft's reply) when
the message is short and receipt is generally assured.
d. Omit the word over, if the message obviously
requires a reply.
4-3-5. ROUTINE RADIO CONTACTS
Record information received from or given to the
pilot. Prior to terminating the contact, provide the
following information:
a. Weather Advisory. When a weather advisory is
in effect, such as a WA, WS, WST, CWA, or AWW,
which pertains to an area within 150 miles of the
aircraft's position, obtain the route and destination if
not already known. Deliver the advisory if it is
pertinent and the pilot indicates that it has not been
received previously.
b. Shifting to Flight Watch. In-flight specialists
shall recommend shifting to the flight watch
frequency for en route advisories when weather
conditions in an area along the pilot's route of flight
so dictate. An example would be a pilot flying into an
area of marginal weather farther along the route. It
would be advantageous for the pilot to contact the
flight watch specialist to pursue an alternate course of
action should the need arise.
PHRASEOLOGY-
FOR ADDITIONAL EN ROUTE WEATHER, CONTACT
FLIGHT WATCH (frequency).
NOTE-
Delete all references to Flight Watch when not available.
c. NOTAM. When the destination is in your
station's flight plan area, inform the pilot of any
pertinent NOTAM.
d. Altimeter Setting.
1. If the aircraft is operating below 18,000 feet
MSL, issue current altimeter setting obtained from
direct reading instruments or received from weather
reporting stations. Use the setting for the location
nearest the position of the aircraft.
2. If the aircraft is arriving or departing a local
airport served by an operating control tower, issue
altimeter setting on request only.
3. Aircraft arriving or departing from a
nontowered airport which has a commissioned
ASOS/AWOS, with ground-to-air capability, shall
be advised to monitor the ASOS/AWOS frequency
for the altimeter setting.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MONITOR (airport) ASOS/AWOS FOR CURRENT
ALTIMETER.
NOTE-
This requirement is deleted if the pilot states, on initial
contact, that he/she has the automated weather.
4. When the barometric pressure is greater than
31.00 inches Hg., Flight Standards will implement
high barometric pressure procedures by NOTAM
defining the geographic area affected. When this
occurs, use the following procedures:
(a) IFR aircraft. Issue the altimeter setting
and advise the pilot that high pressure altimeter
setting procedures are in effect. Control facilities will
issue specific instructions when relaying IFR
clearances and control instructions through AFSS/
FSS facilities when the altimeter is above 31.00
inches Hg.
(b) VFR aircraft. Issue the altimeter setting.
Advise the pilot that high pressure altimeter setting
procedures are in effect and to use an altimeter setting
of 31.00 inches Hg. en route.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ALTIMETER IN EXCESS OF THREE ONE ZERO ZERO.
HIGH PRESSURE ALTIMETER SETTING
PROCEDURES ARE IN EFFECT.
NOTE-
Airports unable to accurately measure barometric
pressures above 31.00 inches Hg. will report the
barometric pressure as missing or in excess of 31.00
inches Hg. Flight operations to or from those airports are
restricted to VFR weather conditions.
REFERENCE-
AIM, Chapter 7, Section 2, and FAAO JO 7110.65, Para 2-6-2,
Hazardous Inflight Weather Advisory Service (HIWAS).
e. Incorrect Cruising Altitude. If the aircraft is
operating VFR at an altitude between 3,000 feet AGL
to, but not including FL180, and reports at an
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-3-3 Radio Communications
incorrect cruising altitude for the direction of flight,
issue a VFR cruising altitude advisory.
PHRASEOLOGY-
V-F-R CRUISING LEVELS FOR YOUR DIRECTION
OF FLIGHT ARE: (Odd/Even) ALTITUDES PLUS FIVE
HUNDRED FEET.
NOTE-
Facilities located in those areas where VFR altitude
separation is below 3,000 feet AGL or above FL 180 shall
provide appropriate phraseology examples for local use.
f. Altimeter Setting in Millibars. If a request for
the altimeter setting in millibars is received, use the
setting for the location nearest the position of the
aircraft and convert to the millibar equivalent value
using the millibar conversion chart. If the millibar
setting is not a whole number, always round down.
(See TBL 4-3-1.)
TBL 4-3-1
Millibar Conversion Chart
MILLIBAR CONVERSION CHART
inches millibars inches millibars inches millibars inches millibars inches millibars inches millibars inches millibars inches millibars
27.50 931.3 28.00 948.2 28.50 965.1 29.00 982.1 29.50 999.0 30.00 1015.9 30.50 1032.8 31.00 1049.8
27.51 931.6 28.01 948.5 28.51 965.5 29.01 982.4 29.51 999.3 30.01 1016.3 30.51 1033.2 31.01 1050.1
27.52 931.9 28.02 948.9 28.52 965.8 29.02 982.7 29.52 999.7 30.02 1016.6 30.52 1033.5 31.02 1050.5
27.53 932.3 28.03 949.2 28.53 966.1 29.03 983.1 29.53 1000.0 30.03 1016.9 30.53 1033.9 31.03 1050.8
27.54 932.6 28.04 949.5 28.54 966.5 29.04 983.4 29.54 1000.3 30.04 1017.3 30.54 1034.2 31.04 1051.1
27.55 933.0 28.05 949.9 28.55 966.8 29.05 983.7 29.55 1000.7 30.05 1017.6 30.55 1034.5 31.05 1051.5
27.56 933.3 28.06 950.2 28.56 967.2 29.06 984.1 29.56 1001.0 30.06 1017.9 30.56 1034.9 31.06 1051.8
27.57 933.6 28.07 950.6 28.57 967.5 29.07 984.4 29.57 1001.4 30.07 1018.3 30.57 1035.2 31.07 1052.2
27.58 934.0 28.08 950.9 28.58 967.8 29.08 984.8 29.58 1001.7 30.08 1018.6 30.58 1035.6 31.08 1052.5
27.59 934.3 28.09 951.2 28.59 968.2 29.09 985.1 29.59 1002.0 30.09 1019.0 30.59 1035.9 31.09 1052.8
27.60 934.6 28.10 951.6 28.60 968.5 29.10 985.4 29.60 1002.4 30.10 1019.3 30.60 1036.2 31.10 1053.2
27.61 935.0 28.11 951.9 28.61 968.8 29.11 985.8 29.61 1002.7 30.11 1019.6 30.61 1036.6 31.11 1053.5
27.62 935.3 28.12 952.3 28.62 969.2 29.12 986.1 29.62 1003.0 30.12 1020.0 30.62 1036.9 31.12 1053.8
27.63 935.7 28.13 952.6 28.63 969.5 29.13 986.5 29.63 1003.4 30.13 1020.3 30.63 1037.3 31.13 1054.2
27.64 936.0 28.14 952.9 28.64 969.9 29.14 986.8 29.64 1003.7 30.14 1020.7 30.64 1037.6 31.14 1054.5
27.65 936.3 28.15 953.3 28.65 970.2 29.15 987.1 29.65 1004.1 30.15 1021.0 30.65 1037.9 31.15 1054.9
27.66 936.7 28.16 953.6 28.66 970.5 29.16 987.5 29.66 1004.4 30.16 1021.3 30.66 1038.3 31.16 1055.2
27.67 937.0 28.17 953.9 28.67 970.9 29.17 987.8 29.67 1004.7 30.17 1021.7 30.67 1038.6 31.17 1055.5
27.68 937.4 28.18 954.3 28.68 971.2 29.18 988.1 29.68 1005.1 30.18 1022.0 30.68 1038.9 31.18 1055.9
27.69 937.7 28.19 954.6 28.69 971.6 29.19 988.5 29.69 1005.4 30.19 1022.4 30.69 1039.3 31.19 1056.2
27.70 938.0 28.20 955.0 28.70 971.9 29.20 988.8 29.70 1005.8 30.20 1022.7 30.70 1039.6 31.20 1056.6
27.71 938.4 28.21 955.3 28.71 972.2 29.21 989.2 29.71 1006.1 30.21 1023.0 30.71 1040.0 31.21 1056.9
27.72 938.7 28.22 955.6 28.72 972.6 29.22 989.5 29.72 1006.4 30.22 1023.4 30.72 1040.3 31.22 1057.2
27.73 939.0 28.23 956.0 28.73 972.9 29.23 989.8 29.73 1006.8 30.23 1023.7 30.73 1040.6 31.23 1057.6
27.74 939.4 28.24 956.3 28.74 973.2 29.24 990.2 29.74 1007.1 30.24 1024.0 30.74 1041.0 31.24 1057.9
27.75 939.7 28.25 956.7 28.75 973.6 29.25 990.5 29.75 1007.5 30.25 1024.4 30.75 1041.3 31.25 1058.2
27.76 940.1 28.26 957.0 28.76 973.9 29.26 990.8 29.76 1007.8 30.26 1024.7 30.76 1041.6 31.26 1058.6
27.77 940.4 28.27 957.3 28.77 974.3 29.27 991.2 29.77 1008.1 30.27 1025.1 30.77 1042.0 31.27 1058.9
27.78 940.7 28.28 957.7 28.78 974.6 29.28 991.5 29.78 1008.5 30.28 1025.4 30.78 1042.3 31.28 1059.3
27.79 941.1 28.29 958.0 28.79 974.9 29.29 991.9 29.79 1008.8 30.29 1025.7 30.79 1042.7 31.29 1059.6
27.80 941.4 28.30 958.3 28.80 975.3 29.30 992.2 29.80 1009.1 30.30 1026.1 30.80 1043.0 31.30 1059.9
27.81 941.8 28.31 958.7 28.81 975.6 29.31 992.6 29.81 1009.5 30.31 1026.4 30.81 1043.3 31.31 1060.3
27.82 942.1 28.32 959.0 28.82 976.0 29.32 992.9 29.82 1009.8 30.32 1026.8 30.82 1043.7 31.32 1060.6
27.83 942.4 28.33 959.4 28.83 976.3 29.33 993.2 29.83 1010.2 30.33 1027.1 30.83 1044.0 31.33 1061.0
27.84 942.8 28.34 959.7 28.84 976.6 29.34 992.6 29.84 1010.5 30.34 1027.4 30.84 1044.4 31.34 1061.3
27.85 943.1 28.35 960.0 28.85 977.0 29.35 993.9 29.85 1010.8 30.35 1027.8 30.85 1044.7 31.35 1061.6
27.86 943.4 28.36 960.4 28.86 977.3 29.36 994.2 29.86 1011.2 30.36 1028.1 30.86 1045.0 31.36 1062.0
27.87 943.8 28.37 960.7 28.87 977.7 29.37 994.6 29.87 1011.5 30.37 1028.4 30.87 1045.4 31.37 1062.3
27.88 944.1 28.38 961.1 28.88 978.0 29.38 994.9 29.88 1011.9 30.38 1028.8 30.88 1045.7 31.38 1062.6
27.89 944.5 28.39 961.4 28.89 978.3 29.39 995.3 29.89 1012.2 30.39 1029.1 30.89 1046.1 31.39 1063.0
27.90 944.8 28.40 961.7 28.90 978.7 29.40 995.6 29.90 1012.5 30.40 1029.5 30.90 1046.4 31.40 1063.3
27.91 945.1 28.41 962.1 28.91 979.0 29.41 995.9 29.91 1012.9 30.41 1029.8 30.91 1046.7 31.41 1063.7
27.92 945.5 28.42 962.4 28.92 979.3 29.42 996.3 29.92 1013.2 30.42 1030.1 30.92 1047.1 31.42 1064.0
27.93 945.8 28.43 962.8 28.93 979.7 29.43 996.6 29.93 1013.5 30.43 1030.5 30.93 1047.4 31.43 1064.3
27.94 946.2 28.44 963.1 28.94 980.0 29.44 997.0 29.94 1013.9 30.44 1030.8 30.94 1047.7 31.44 1064.7
27.95 946.5 28.45 963.4 28.95 980.4 29.45 997.3 29.95 1014.2 30.45 1031.2 30.95 1048.1 31.45 1065.0
27.96 946.8 28.46 963.8 28.96 980.7 29.46 997.6 29.96 1014.6 30.46 1031.5 30.96 1044.4 31.46 1065.4
27.97 947.2 28.47 964.1 28.97 981.0 29.47 998.0 29.97 1014.9 30.47 1031.8 30.97 1048.8 31.47 1065.7
27.98 947.5 28.48 964.4 28.98 981.4 29.48 998.3 29.98 1015.2 30.48 1032.2 30.98 1049.1 31.48 1066.0
27.99 947.9 28.49 964.8 28.99 981.7 29.49 998.6 29.99 1015.6 30.49 1032.5 30.99 1049.4 31.49 1066.4
JO 7110.10T 2/14/4-3-4 Radio Communications
4-3-6. RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
TRANSFER
Transfer radio communications by specifying the
following:
a. The name of the facility to be contacted and the
frequency.
PHRASEOLOGY-
CONTACT (name of facility) ON (frequency).
b. In situations where an aircraft will continue to
communicate with your facility, use the following:
PHRASEOLOGY-
CONTACT (name of service) ON (frequency).
4-3-7. ATC CLEARANCES, ADVISORIES,
OR REQUESTS
a. Notify ATC via interphone of a pilot's request
for clearance and include the departure and
destination airports and, if appropriate, departing
runway and time in the request. Relay, verbatim, ATC
clearances, advisories, and requests received from the
control facility. Give a time check to the nearest
quarter minute when relaying a clearance that
includes a release or void time.
NOTE-
For ATC clearances, “verbatim” means exact control
instructions, in the format stated in FAAO JO 7110.65, Air
Traffic Control, Para 4-2-1, Clearance Items.
PHRASEOLOGY-
Aircraft on the ground:
(Facility) RADIO, CLEARANCE REQUEST.
After go-ahead from ATC,
(Aircraft identification) DEPARTING (airport),
RUNWAY (number if applicable) DESTINATION (fix or
airport). (If applicable), CAN BE OFF AT (time).
Aircraft airborne:
(Facility) RADIO, CLEARANCE REQUEST.
After go-ahead from ATC:
(Aircraft identification), (position), (altitude), (route),
AND (destination).
b. Prefix all ATC clearances, advisories, or
requests with the appropriate phrase “A-T-C
CLEARS,” “A-T-C ADVISES,” etc.
c. When issuing information, relaying clearances,
or instructions, ensure acknowledgement by the
pilot.
d. If altitude, heading, or other items are read back
by the pilot, ensure the readback is correct. If
incorrect or incomplete, make corrections as
appropriate.
NOTE-
Pilots may acknowledge clearances, instructions, or
information by using “Wilco,” “Roger,” “Affirmative,”
or other appropriate words or remarks.
REFERENCE-
Pilot/Controller Glossary.
4-3-8. DEPARTURE REPORTS
a. When an IFR aircraft reports airborne or is
observed airborne, transmit the aircraft identification
and departure time to the control facility from which
the clearance was received.
PHRASEOLOGY(Facility) RADIO. DEPARTURE. (Aircraft
identification), (time).
NOTE1. This includes known VFR departure times of aircraft
which are to obtain IFR clearances when airborne.
2. The requirement for transmitting departure reports
may be omitted if requested by the IFR control facility,
provided the procedures are specified in a Letter of
Agreement.
b. When an aircraft which has filed an IFR flight
plan requests a VFR departure, facilitate the request
as follows:
1. If the facility/sector responsible for issuing
the clearance is unable to issue a clearance, inform the
pilot and suggest that the delay be taken on the
ground. If the pilot insists upon taking off VFR and
obtaining an IFR clearance in the air, relay the pilot's
intentions and, if possible, the VFR departure time to
the facility/sector holding the flight plan.
2. After obtaining approval from the facility/
sector responsible for issuing the IFR clearance, an
aircraft planning IFR flight may be authorized to
depart VFR. Inform the pilot of the proper frequency
and, if appropriate, where or when to contact the
facility responsible for issuing the clearance.
3/15/07 7110.65R CHG 2 JO 7110.10T CHG 1 7/31/08
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-3-5 Radio Communications
(a) When requesting:
PHRASEOLOGY(Facility) RADIO. (Aircraft identification), REQUEST
V-F-R DEPARTURE.
(b) When relaying to aircraft:
PHRASEOLOGY-
A-T-C ADVISES (aircraft identification) V-F-R
DEPARTURE APPROVED. CONTACT (facility) ON
(frequency) AT (location or time, if required) FOR
CLEARANCE.
(c) Relaying to control facility:
PHRASEOLOGY(Facility) RADIO. (Aircraft identification) DEPARTED
V-F-R AT (time).
4-3-9. IFR FLIGHT PROGRESS REPORTS
Relay to the appropriate ATC facility the aircraft
identification, position, time, altitude, estimate of
next reporting point, name of subsequent reporting
point, and any pilot remarks or requests including
amended flight plan data.
PHRASEOLOGY(Facility) RADIO. PROGRESS. (Aircraft identification),
(position), (altitude), (time) (name and estimate of next
reporting point) (name of subsequent reporting point)
(pilot's remarks).
4-3-10. ARRIVAL/MISSED APPROACH
REPORTS
Relay to the appropriate ATC facility, by the most
expeditious means available, the time that an IFR
aircraft lands, cancels, or executes a missed approach,
and intentions, if known.
4-3-11. NONDELIVERY OF MESSAGES
Inform ATC when a message has not been delivered
within:
a. Three minutes of receipt; or
b. Three minutes after the specified delivery time;
or
c. A specified cancellation time.
4-3-12. BROADCAST (BLIND
TRANSMISSION) OF MESSAGES
Broadcast messages as requested by ATC. If no
accompanying transmitting instructions are received,
transmit the message four times:
a. Once upon receipt; and
b. At approximately 3-minute intervals thereaf-
ter.
4-3-13. PENETRATION OF CLASS A
AIRSPACE OR PROHIBITED/RESTRICTED
AREA
a. Penetration of Class A airspace. When a VFR
aircraft's position report indicates penetration of
Class A airspace:
1. Inform the pilot of the Class A airspace
penetration and request intentions.
PHRASEOLOGY-
YOU ARE IN CLASS A AIRSPACE. AN A-T-C
CLEARANCE IS REQUIRED. REQUEST YOUR
INTENTIONS.
2. Inform the control facility immediately.
3. Relay ATC instructions.
b. Penetration of PROHIBITED/RESTRICTED
AREA. When an aircraft report indicates penetration
of a prohibited/restricted area:
1. Inform the pilot.
PHRASEOLOGY-
YOU ARE IN A PROHIBITED/RESTRICTED AREA.
AUTHORIZATION IS REQUIRED. REQUEST YOUR
INTENTIONS.
2. Inform the control facility immediately.
3. Relay ATC instructions.
7/31/08 JO 7110.10T CHG 1
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-4-1 Airport Advisory Services
Section 4. Airport Advisory Services
4-4-1. GENERAL
Airport advisory services are provided at airports
without an operating control tower that have certified
automated weather reporting via voice capability.
a. Local Airport Advisory (LAA) is a service
provided by facilities, which are located on the
landing airport, have ground-to-air communication
on a discrete frequency or the tower frequency when
the tower is closed, automated weather reporting with
voice broadcasting, and a continuous ASOS/AWOS
data display, other continuous direct reading
instruments, or manual observations available to the
specialist.
b. Remote Airport Advisory (RAA) is a remote
service which may be provided by facilities, which
are not located on the landing airport, but have
ground-to-air communication on a discrete frequen-
cy or the tower frequency when the tower is closed,
automated weather reporting with voice available to
the pilot at the landing airport, and a continuous
ASOS/AWOS data display, other direct reading
instruments, or manual observation is available to the
AFSS specialist.
c. Remote Airport Information Service (RAIS) is
a temporary service provided by facilities, which are
not located on the landing airport, but have
communication capability and automated weather
reporting available to the pilot at the landing airport.
d. Final Guard Service is a value added service
provided in conjunction with LAA/RAA only during
periods of significant and fast changing weather
conditions that may affect landing and takeoff
operations.
1. When the pilot reports “On final” or “Taking
the active runway,” the specialist shall provide the
current wind direction, speed, and altimeter.
2. If during the operation conditions change and
in the specialist's opinion, the changing information
might be useful to the pilot, the specialist shall
broadcast the information in the blind.
3. Pilots will not be required or expected to
acknowledge the broadcast.
NOTE-
FAA policy requires pilots to access the current automated
weather prior to requesting any remote ATC services at
nontowered airports. It is the pilot's responsibility to
comply with the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) if
landing clearance is required.
e. During initial contact if the pilot reports: “I have
the automated weather,” do not provide weather
information unless specifically requested by the pilot
or a special report is transmitted.
EXAMPLE-
RAIS:
Pilot - “Green Bay radio, Cessna 12RG, ten northeast,
landing Eau Claire, request airport information, I have
the automated weather.”
FSS - “Cessna 12RG, Eau Claire airport information,
your traffic is a Cessna 172 entering downwind and a
Convair 660 reported on final, both one minute ago. There
is an airport maintenance vehicle . . ..”
f. If additional pilots initiate contact a short time
after LAA/RAIS/RAA was provided, determine if
the new pilot(s) copied the information when it was
provided.
1. If the new pilot responds in the affirmative,
do not repeat the information.
2. If the new pilot acknowledges the LAA/
RAIS/RAA information then requests specific
information, provide only the information requested.
NOTE-
The intent is to reduce frequency clutter while insuring
that the pilots are aware of the situation as it changes.
g. If a pilot asks for LAA/RAIS/RAA at an airport
where the requested service is not available but one
of the three services is available, inform the pilot
about what service is available, and provide the
appropriate service.
PHRASEOLOGY(Airport name) LOCAL AIRPORT ADVISORY IS NOT
AVAILABLE. REMOTE AIRPORT INFORMATION . . ..
h. At airports where automated current weather is
available to the pilot via ASOS/AWOS voice
recording:
1. When the pilot reports, “I have the automated
weather,” provide the appropriate nonweather
elements.
2. At airports with commissioned ASOS/
AWOS with continuous automated voice capability,
instruct the pilot to monitor the automated broadcast
and advise intentions.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-4-2 Airport Advisory Services
PHRASEOLOGY-
MONITOR (location) ASOS/AWOS (frequency). ADVISE
INTENTIONS.
3. If the pilot reports the AWOS/ASOS is out of
service, provide the last reported weather available.
4. If the pilot requests special VFR clearance,
provide the appropriate elements and follow the
procedures in Section 5.
4-4-2. LAA/RAIS/RAA ELEMENTS AND
PHRASEOLOGY
a. State the airport name and the words, Airport
Advisory, Airport Information, or Remote Advisory.
PHRASEOLOGY(Airport name), AIRPORT ADVISORY . . . or (Airport
name), AIRPORT INFORMATION . . . or (Airport name),
REMOTE ADVISORY . . ..
b. Provide the information as appropriate, se-
quencing the elements in the following manner or to
best serve the current traffic situation:
1. Final Guard is a value added wind and
altimeter monitoring service provided in conjunction
with LAA/RAA during periods of significant and/or
fast changing weather conditions that may affect
landing and takeoff operations. The specialist shall
monitor the remoted display of the current wind and
altimeter. Provide Final Guard as follows:
(a) When the pilot reports “On final” or
“Taking the active runway,” the specialist shall
provide the current wind direction, speed, and
altimeter.
(b) If during the landing or takeoff operation
conditions change and, in the specialist's opinion, the
changing information might be useful to the pilot, the
specialist shall broadcast the new wind and/or
altimeter information in the blind.
(c) Pilots will not be required or expected to
acknowledge the broadcast.
PHRASEOLOGY-
N12RG, WIND NOW (Direction) AT (Speed).
NOTE-
FAA policy requires pilots to access the current automated
weather prior to requesting any remote ATC services at
nontowered airports. It is the pilot's responsibility to
comply with the FARs if landing clearance is required.
Final Guard is never provided with RAIS.
2. Favored or Designated Runway is a value
added service offered in conjunction with LAA/
RAA. The specialist shall check the current wind data
and provide the runway information as follows:
(a) For takeoff and landing operations state
the runway most nearly aligned into the wind.
(b) Inform the pilot when the current wind
direction is varying enough that the selection of the
favored runway may be affected, when there is more
than 10 knots between peaks and lulls, or the pilot has
requested the information.
(c) If there is no wind, state the runway
currently in use, the runway favored by a shorter
taxiway, or other local consideration.
(d) When airport management has designated
a runway to be used under certain wind or other
conditions (and has informed the FSS in writing)
issue runway information accordingly.
(e) If the majority of the traffic has been using
a runway other than the favored or designated
runway, advise the pilot.
EXAMPLE-
Landing airport has runways 27 (longer) and 32 with most
pilots utilizing the shorter runway, “FAVORED RUNWAY
32, WINDS VARYING BETWEEN 280 AND 340, SPEED
15 GUSTING 28.”
(f) When a pilot advises he/she will use a
runway other than the favored or the designated
runway, inform all known concerned traffic.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ATTENTION ALL AIRCRAFT. (Aircraft type)
DEPARTING/LANDING RUNWAY (number).
(g) If a pilot requests the distance between an
intersection and the runway end, furnish measured
data from the local airport intersection takeoff
diagram or other appropriate sources.
(h) The favored or designated runway is
never provided with RAIS.
3. Traffic. Factual information about observed
or reported traffic, which may constitute a collision
hazard. This may include positions of aircraft inflight
and/or aircraft and vehicles operating on the airport.
PHRASEOLOGY-
TRAFFIC (Aircraft type), (position), (minutes) AGO.
4. Altimeter Setting.
(a) LAA/RAA: Apply special procedures
when the altimeter setting is more than
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-4-3 Airport Advisory Services
31.00_inches_Hg. Stations with the capability of
reading altimeter settings above 31.00 inches Hg.
shall issue altimeter settings.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ALTIMETER IN EXCESS OF THREE ONE ZERO ZERO.
HIGH PRESSURE ALTIMETER SETTING
PROCEDURES ARE IN EFFECT.
(b) RAIS: Do not provide the altimeter unless
specifically requested. Then, provide the altimeter
from the last official weather report.
5. Weather. When the pilot does not have the
weather conditions, issue the last reported or known
weather information as follows:
(a) LAA/RAIS/RAA:
(1) Wind direction and speed.
(2) Altimeter.
(3) Ceiling and visibility to VFR aircraft
when less than basic VFR conditions exist.
(4) Visibility to VFR aircraft when it is less
than three miles in any quadrant.
(5) Touchdown RVR/RVV for the runway
in use where RVR/RVV readout equipment is located
at the workstation providing the service.
(6) To IFR aircraft executing an instrument
approach or departure and to the appropriate control
facility when visibility is less than 3 miles or when
the ceiling is less than 1,000 feet or below the highest
circling minimum, whichever is greater.
6. Weather advisory alert. Provide in accor-
dance with subpara 4-3-5a.
PHRASEOLOGY(Advisory description) IS CURRENT FOR (condition)
OVER (area).
7. Density Altitude.
(a) Facilities at airports with field elevations
of 2,000 feet MSL or higher, transmit a density
altitude advisory to departing general aviation
aircraft whenever the temperature reaches the criteria
contained in TBL 2-2-1.
PHRASEOLOGY-
CHECK DENSITY ALTITUDE
(b) Omit this advisory if pilot states the
computation has been done or if the specialist is
aware that a density altitude computation for that
aircraft was included in the preflight briefing.
8. Wake Turbulence. Issue cautionary informa-
tion to any aircraft if in your judgment wake
turbulence may have an adverse effect on it.
PHRASEOLOGY-
CAUTION WAKE TURBULENCE (traffic information).
NOTE-
Wake turbulence may be encountered by aircraft in flight
as well as when operating on the airport movement area.
Because wake turbulence is unpredictable, air traffic
personnel are not responsible for anticipating its
existence or effect.
9. NOTAM. NOTAMs concerning local
NAVAIDs and field conditions pertinent to flight.
EXAMPLE“All runways covered by packed snow 6 inches deep.”
10. Braking Action. Furnish braking action
reports as received from pilots or airport management
to all aircraft as follows:
(a) Describe braking action using the terms
fair, poor, or nil. If the pilot or airport management
reports braking action in other than the foregoing
terms, ask them to categorize braking action in these
terms.
(b) When known, include the type of aircraft
or vehicle from which the report is received.
EXAMPLE“Braking action poor.”
“Braking action poor, reported by a Cessna Four-Oh-
One.”
(c) If the braking action report affects only a
portion of a runway, obtain enough information from
the pilot or airport management to describe braking
action in terms easily understood by the pilot.
EXAMPLE“Braking action poor first half of Runway Six, reported by
a Gulfstream Two.”
“Braking action poor Runway Two-Seven, reported by a
Boeing Seven Twenty-Seven.”
NOTE-
Descriptive terms, such as first/last half of the runway,
should normally be used rather than landmark
descriptions, such as opposite the fire station, south of a
taxiway.
11. Runway Friction. Provide runway friction
measurement readings/values as received from
airport management to aircraft as follows:
(a) At airports with friction measuring
devices, provide runway friction reports, as received
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-4-4 Airport Advisory Services
from airport management, to pilots. State the runway
number followed by the MU number for each of the
three runway zones, the time of the report in UTC,
and a word describing the cause of the runway friction
problem.
EXAMPLE“Runway two seven, MU forty-two, forty-one, twentyeight at one zero one eight ZULU, ice.”
(b) Issue the runway surface condition and/or
the runway condition reading (RCR), if provided, to
all USAF and ANG aircraft. Issue the RCR to other
aircraft upon request.
EXAMPLE“Ice on runway, R-C-R zero five, patchy.”
NOTE-
USAF has established RCR procedures for determining
the average deceleration readings of runways under
conditions of water, slush, ice, or snow. The use of RCR
code is dependent upon the pilot's having a “stopping
capability chart” specifically applicable to his/her
aircraft. USAF offices furnish RCR information at
airports serving USAF and ANG aircraft.
12. Do not approve or disapprove simulated
instrument approaches.
4-4-3. CHARTS
Keep charts depicting runways, local taxi routes,
intersection takeoff information, airport traffic
patterns, and instrument approach procedures
convenient to the airport advisory position.
4-4-4. AUTHORIZED FREQUENCIES
a. LAA/RAA:
1. Provide LAA/RAA on the appropriate
discrete frequency at nontower locations and on the
tower local control frequency at an airport with a
part-time tower when that facility is not operating.
2. If a pilot calls on another frequency, issue
advisories on the frequency to which the pilot is
listening, in addition to the appropriate LAA/RAA
frequency.
3. Encourage the pilot to guard the LAA/RAA
frequency or tower local control frequency within a
10-mile radius of the airport.
NOTE-
In situations where the inflight position is split, advise
pilot of appropriate frequency to obtain LAA/RAA/RAIS.
PHRASEOLOGY-
FOR FURTHER ADVISORY SERVICE AT (airport
name), MONITOR (frequency) WITHIN ONE ZERO
MILES.
b. RAIS:
1. Provide RAIS on the existing discrete
frequency located at the remote airport.
2. If a pilot calls and appears to be unaware that
RAIS is available, offer the service.
3. If a pilot calls on another frequency, issue
advisories on the frequency the pilot is listening, in
addition to the appropriate LAA/RAA frequency.
4. If RAIS is requested when it is not offered,
inform the pilot that the service is not available and
follow para 4-4-5.
NOTE-
This service is only provided at remote airports that have
an existing discrete communications capability between
the airport and the flight service station serving the
airport and a NOTAM D announcing the availability of
the service is in effect.
4-4-5. REQUEST FOR LAA/RAIS/RAA AT
AIRPORTS WHERE THE SERVICES ARE
UNAVAILABLE
Advise the pilot that the requested LAA/RAIS/RAA
service is not available. Provide CTAF frequency
and/or the ASOS/AWOS frequency, when available.
When not available, issue the last known surface
condition and altimeter.
PHRASEOLOGY(Airport name) AIRPORT ADVISORY or AIRPORT
INFORMATION or REMOTE ADVISORY NOT
AVAILABLE. CONTACT (airport name) CTAF
(frequency).
4-4-6. TRAFFIC CONTROL
When there is no control tower in operation and a
pilot appears unaware of this fact, inform him/her as
follows:
PHRASEOLOGY-
NO CONTROL TOWER IN OPERATION.
4-4-7. AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT CHECKS
When requested, provide observed information.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-4-5 Airport Advisory Services
PHRASEOLOGY-
LANDING GEAR APPEARS TO BE DOWN AND IN
PLACE.
4-4-8. AUTOMATIC FLIGHT INFORMATION
SERVICE (AFIS) - ALASKA FSSs ONLY
Use the AFIS to provide advance non-control airport,
meteorological, and pertinent NOTAM information
to aircraft.
NOTE-
Use of the AFIS by pilots is not mandatory, but pilots who
use two-way radio communication with the FSS are urged
to use the service.
a. Begin each new AFIS message with the
airport/facility name and a phonetic alphabet letter.
The phonetic alphabet letter shall also be spoken at
the end of the message and be used sequentially,
beginning with “Alfa, ” ending with “Zulu.”
Full-time facilities shall repeat the letter without
regard to the beginning of a new day. Part-time
facilities shall identify the first resumed broadcast
message with “Alfa.”
b. The AFIS recording shall be reviewed for
completeness, accuracy, speech rate, and proper
enunciation before being transmitted.
c. Maintain an AFIS message that reflects the
most current local airport information.
1. Make a new AFIS recording when any of the
following occur:
(a) Upon receipt of any new official weather,
regardless of any change in values.
(b) When runway braking action reports are
received that indicate runway braking is worse than
that which was included in the current AFIS
broadcast.
(c) When there is a change in any other
pertinent data for the airport or surrounding area, such
as change in favored runway, new or canceled
NOTAMs, AIRMETs, SIGMETs, CWAs, PIREPs, or
other information that facilitates the repetitive
transmission of essential but routine information.
2. Data may be omitted because of rapidly
changing weather conditions or other circumstances
when deemed necessary by the supervisor or
controller-in-charge. When this occurs, the AFIS
shall state the name of the appropriate facility to
contact (and frequency, if different from airport
CTAF) to obtain the missing data.
3. Broadcast, on the LAA frequency, the new
airport AFIS phonetic alphabet identifier after each
new recording.
4. After establishing two-way radio communic-
ation, if the pilot does not state that he/she has the
current AFIS code, the specialist shall either:
(a) Use LAA procedures to issue pertinent
AFIS information, or
(b) Advise the pilot to return to the AFIS
frequency.
Specialists shall provide LAA information when the
AFIS is not available.
5. At the discretion of the supervisor/control-
ler-in-charge, AFIS broadcasts may be suspended
within specified time periods. During these periods,
the AFIS shall contain a brief statement the AFIS is
suspended for the specified time and pilots should
contact the FSS for LAA.
PHRASEOLOGY“(Airport name) FLIGHT INFORMATION
BROADCASTS ARE SUSPENDED UNTIL (time).
CONTACT (facility name) RADIO ON (frequency) FOR
AIRPORT INFORMATION.”
6. Part-time and seasonal facilities shall record
a message with the appropriate frequency and facility
contact information as well as known information
regarding resumption of FSS LAA.
PHRASEOLOGY“(Name of FSS) HOURS OF OPERATION ARE (time)
LOCAL TIME TO (time) LOCAL TIME. THE COMMON
TRAFFIC ADVISORY FREQUENCY IS (frequency).
PILOT CONTROLLED LIGHTING IS AVAILABLE ON
(frequency). FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CONTACT (name of AFSS) ON (frequency).”
“(Name of FSS) IS CLOSED FOR THE WINTER
SEASON. THE COMMON TRAFFIC ADVISORY
FREQUENCY IS (frequency). PILOT CONTROLLED
LIGHTING IS AVAILABLE ON (frequency). FOR
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT (name of
AFSS) ON (frequency).”
7. In the event of an AFIS equipment failure, the
supervisor/controller-in-charge shall make an entry
in the Daily Record of Facility Operation, FAA Form
7230-4; notify the appropriate Technical Operations
personnel; issue a NOTAM; and resume LAA.
8. Use the following format and include the
following in AFIS broadcast as appropriate:
7/31/08 JO 7110.10T CHG 1
JO 7110.10T 2/14/4-4-6 Airport Advisory Services
(a) (Airport/facility name) airport informa-
tion.
(b) Phonetic alphabet designator.
(c) Special routing procedures in effect (when
appropriate for the Ketchikan (KTN) area).
(d) Time of the AFIS preparation (UTC)
followed by the word, “ZULU.”
(e) Weather information consisting of: Wind,
visibility, present weather (obstructions to visibility),
sky condition, temperature, dew point, altimeter,
pertinent remarks included in the official weather
observation. The ceiling/sky condition, visibility,
and obstructions to vision may be omitted if the
ceiling is above 5,000 feet and the visibility is more
than 5 miles.
EXAMPLE“The weather is better than five thousand and five.”
(f) Favored runway and additional local
information, as required.
(g) NOTAMs concerning local NAVAIDs and
field conditions pertinent to flight.
EXAMPLE“Notice to Airmen, Iliamna NDB out of service.”
“Transcribed weather broadcast out of service.”
(h) Runway breaking action or friction
reports when provided. Include the time of the report
and a word describing the cause of the runway friction
problem.
PHRASEOLOGY“RUNWAY (number) MU (first value, second value, third
value) AT (time), (cause).”
REFERENCE-
FAAO JO 7110.10, Para 4-4-2, LAA/RAIS/RAA Elements and
Phraseology.
(i) Low Level Wind shear (LLWS) advisory,
including those contained in the terminal forecast and
in pilot reports. (Include pilot report information at
least 20 minutes following the report).
EXAMPLE“Low level wind shear is forecast.”
(j) Unauthorized Laser Illumination Events.
When a laser event is reported, include reported
unauthorized laser illumination events on the AFIS
broadcast for one hour following the last report.
Include the time, location, altitude, color, and
direction of the laser as reported by the pilot.
PHRASEOLOGY“UNAUTHORIZED LASER ILLUMINATION EVENT,
(UTC time), (location), (altitude), (color), (direction).”
EXAMPLE“Unauthorized laser illumination event at zero one zero
zero Zulu, eight-mile final runway one eight at three
thousand feet, green laser from the southwest.”
(k) Man-Portable Air Defense Systems
(MANPADS) alert and advisory. Specify the nature
and location of threat or incident, whether reported or
observed and by whom, time (if known), and
notification to pilots to advise ATC if they need to
divert.
PHRASEOLOGY“MANPADS ALERT. EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION.
MANPADS THREAT/ATTACK/POST-EVENT ACTIVITY
OBSERVED/REPORTED BY (reporting agency)
(location) AT (time, if known). (When transmitting to an
individual aircraft) ADVISE ON INITIAL CONTACT IF
YOU WANT TO DIVERT.”
EXAMPLE“MANPADS alert. Exercise extreme caution. MANPADS
threat reported by TSA, Anchorage area. Advise on initial
contact if you want to divert.”
“MANPADS alert. Exercise extreme caution. MANPADS
attack observed by flight service station one-half mile
northwest of airfield at one-two-five-zero Zulu. Advise
on initial contact if you want to divert.”
NOTE1. Upon receiving or observing an unauthorized
MANPADS alert/advisory, contact the Alaska Flight
Service Information Area Group through the Alaskan
Region Regional Operations Center (ROC).
2. Continue broadcasting the MANPADS alert/advisory
until advised by national headquarters the threat is no
longer present. Coordination may be through Alaska
Flight Service Information Area Group or the Alaskan
Region ROC.
REFERENCE-
FAAO JO 7210.3, Para 2-1-9, Handling MANPADS Incidents.
(l) Any other advisories applicable to the area
covered by the FSS LAA.
(m) Local frequency advisory.
PHRASEOLOGY“CONTACT (facility name) RADIO ON (frequency) FOR
TRAFFIC ADVISORIES.”
(n) Instructions for the pilot to acknowledge
receipt of the FSS AFIS message on initial contact.
EXAMPLE“Dillingham airport information ALFA. One six five five
3/15/07 7110.65R CHG 2 JO 7110.10T CHG 1 7/31/08
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-4-7 Airport Advisory Services
Zulu. Wind one three zero at eight; visibility one five;
ceiling four thousand overcast; temperature four, dew
point three; altimeter two niner niner zero. Favored
runway one niner. Notice to Airmen, Dillingham V-O-R
out of service. Contact Dillingham Radio on one two three
point six for traffic advisories. Advise on initial contact
you have ALFA.”
“Kotzebue information ALFA. One six five five Zulu.
Wind, two one zero at five; visibility two, fog; ceiling one
hundred overcast; temperature minus one two, dew point
minus one four; altimeter three one zero five. Altimeter in
excess of three one zero zero, high pressure altimeter
setting procedures are in effect. Favored runway two six.
Weather in Kotzebue surface area is below V-F-R minima
- an ATC clearance is required. Contact Kotzebue Radio
on one two three point six for traffic advisories and advise
intentions. Notice to Airmen, Hotham NDB out of service.
Transcribed Weather Broadcast out of service. Advise on
initial contact you have ALFA.”
7/31/08 JO 7110.10T CHG 1
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-5-1 Special VFR Operation
Section 5. Special VFR Operation
4-5-1. AUTHORIZATION
a. Special VFR (SVFR) operations in weather
conditions less than VFR minima are authorized:
1. For helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft at any
location not prohibited by 14_CFR Part_91, Ap-
pendix_D, Section_3, or when an exception to 14_CFR
Part_91, Appendix_D, Section_3 has been granted and
an associated letter of agreement established.
REFERENCE14 CFR Part 91, Appendix D, Section 3. Controlled airspace within which
special V-F-R weather minimums are not authorized.
2. Only within surface areas.
3. Only when requested by the pilot.
b. When the primary airport is reporting VFR,
SVFR operations may be authorized for aircraft
transiting surface areas when the pilot advises the
inability to maintain VFR.
NOTE-
Control facilities shall always retain SVFR operations
authority when IFR operations are being conducted in
surface areas.
4-5-2. REQUESTS FOR SPECIAL VFR
CLEARANCE
a. Transmit SVFR clearances only for operations
within surface areas on the basis of weather
conditions. If weather conditions are not reported,
transmit an SVFR clearance whenever a pilot advises
unable to maintain VFR and requests an SVFR
clearance, provided the pilot reports having at least
1-mile flight visibility.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ATC CLEARS (aircraft identification) TO ENTER/OUT
OF/THROUGH (name) SURFACE AREA, and if
applicable, (direction) OF (name) AIRPORT (specified
routing),
and
MAINTAIN SPECIAL V-F-R CONDITIONS AT OR
BELOW (altitude) (if applicable) WHILE IN SURFACE
AREA.
ATC CLEARS (aircraft identification) TO OPERATE
WITHIN (name) SURFACE AREA. MAINTAIN SPECIAL
V-F-R CONDITIONS AT OR BELOW (altitude).
b. Transmit clearance for local SVFR operations
for a specified period (series of takeoffs and landings,
etc.) upon request if the aircraft can be recalled when
traffic or weather conditions require. Where
warranted, letters of agreement may be established.
PHRASEOLOGY-
LOCAL SPECIAL V-F-R OPERATIONS IN THE
IMMEDIATE VICINITY OF (name) AIRPORT ARE
AUTHORIZED UNTIL (time). MAINTAIN SPECIAL
V-F-R CONDITIONS AT OR BELOW (altitude).
c. If an aircraft operating under visual flight rules
attempts to enter, depart, or operate within surface
areas contrary to the provisions of 14 CFR
Section 91.157 (visual flight rules), ensure the pilot
is aware of the current weather conditions. Provide
the following information:
1. At airports with commissioned ASOS/
AWOS with continuous automated voice capability,
instruct the pilot to monitor the automated broadcast
and advise intentions.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MONITOR (location) ASOS/AWOS (frequency). ADVISE
INTENTIONS.
2. At airports without a commissioned ASOS/
AWOS, or, if the pilot is unable to receive the
ASOS/AWOS broadcast, issue the most current
weather report available. Advise the pilot that the
weather is below VFR minima, and request the pilot's
intentions.
PHRASEOLOGY(Location) WEATHER, CEILING (height), VISIBILITY
(miles). (Location) SURFACE AREA IS BELOW V-F-R
MINIMA. AN ATC CLEARANCE IS REQUIRED.
ADVISE INTENTIONS.
NOTE-
Helicopters performing hover taxiing operations (nor-
mally not above 10 feet) within the boundary of the airport
are considered to be taxiing aircraft.
d. At a pilot's request, issue an SVFR clearance,
if appropriate, when an SVFR letter of agreement
exists between an AFSS/FSS and the control facility.
If no agreement exists, request clearance from the
control facility. State the aircraft's location and route
of flight.
PHRASEOLOGY(Facility name) RADIO. REQUEST SPECIAL V-F-R
CLEARANCE (aircraft identification) (direction) OF
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-5-2 Special VFR Operation
(location) AIRPORT (specified routing) INTO/OUT
OF/THROUGH THE (location) SURFACE AREA.
NOTE-
IFR aircraft shall normally have priority over special
VFR (SVFR) aircraft.
1. If the pilot is operating outside surface area
and requests SVFR clearance, issue the clearance or
if unable, advise the pilot to maintain VFR outside
surface area and to standby for clearance.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN V-F-R OUTSIDE (location) SURFACE
AREA. STANDBY FOR CLEARANCE.
2. When an aircraft requests a SVFR clearance
to enter surface area during periods of SVFR activity,
instruct the pilot to maintain VFR conditions outside
surface area pending arrival/recall/departure of
SVFR operations.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN V-F-R CONDITIONS OUTSIDE OF THE
(location) SURFACE AREA PENDING
ARRIVAL/RECALL/DEPARTURE OF IFR/SPECIAL
V-F-R AIRCRAFT.
3. If the pilot is operating inside the surface area
and requests an SVFR clearance, advise the pilot to
maintain VFR and standby for clearance.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN V-F-R, STANDBY FOR CLEARANCE.
e. Suspend SVFR operations when necessary to
comply with instructions contained in subpara
4-5-4b or when requested by the control facility.
PHRASEOLOGY-
SPECIAL V-F-R AUTHORIZATION DISCONTINUED.
RETURN TO AIRPORT OR DEPART SURFACE AREA.
ADVISE INTENTIONS.
After response
REPORT LANDING COMPLETED/LEAVING
SURFACE AREA.
4-5-3. VISIBILITY BELOW 1 MILE
a. When the ground visibility is officially reported
at an airport as less than 1 mile, treat requests for
SVFR operations at that airport by other than
helicopters as follows:
NOTE14 CFR Part 91 does not prohibit helicopter Special VFR
flights when visibility is less than 1 mile.
1. Inform departing aircraft that ground visibili-
ty is less than 1 mile and that a clearance cannot be
issued.
PHRASEOLOGY(Location) VISIBILITY (value). A-T-C UNABLE TO
ISSUE DEPARTURE CLEARANCE.
2. Inform arriving aircraft operating outside of
the surface area that ground visibility is less than
1_mile and, unless an emergency exists, a clearance
cannot be issued.
PHRASEOLOGY(Location) VISIBILITY (value). A-T-C UNABLE TO
ISSUE ENTRY CLEARANCE UNLESS AN
EMERGENCY EXISTS.
3. Inform arriving aircraft operating within the
surface area that ground visibility is less than 1 mile
and request the pilot's intentions. Relay the pilot's
response to the control facility immediately.
PHRASEOLOGY(Location) VISIBILITY (value). ADVISE INTENTIONS.
b. When weather conditions are not officially
reported at an airport and the pilot advises the flight
visibility is less than 1 mile, treat request for SVFR
operations at that airport by other than helicopters as
follows:
NOTE14 CFR Part 91 prescribes use of officially reported
ground visibility at airports where it is provided, and
landing or takeoff flight visibility where it is not, as the
governing ground visibility for VFR and SVFR
operations.
1. Inform departing aircraft that a clearance
cannot be issued.
PHRASEOLOGY-
UNABLE TO ISSUE DEPARTURE CLEARANCE.
2. Inform arriving aircraft operating outside the
surface area that unless an emergency exists, a
clearance cannot be issued.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ATC UNABLE TO ISSUE ENTRY CLEARANCE UNLESS
AN EMERGENCY EXISTS.
3. Request intentions of arriving aircraft
operating within surface areas. Relay the pilot's
response to the control facility immediately.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ADVISE INTENTIONS.
c. Transmit a clearance to scheduled air carrier
aircraft to conduct operations if ground visibility is
not less than 1/2 mile.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-5-3 Special VFR Operation
d. Transmit a clearance to an aircraft to fly through
surface area if the pilot reports flight visibility is at
least 1 statute mile.
4-5-4. PREDESIGNED SPECIAL VFR
CLEARANCES
Transmit predesigned SVFR clearances only during
those periods authorized by the control facility.
NOTE-
The control facility may rescind this authorization at any
time.
a. Apply these procedures only to aircraft
equipped with a functioning two-way radio. Refer all
requests for no-radio SVFR operations to the control
facility.
b. Transmit clearances so that only one aircraft at
a time operates in surface area unless:
1. Otherwise authorized by a letter of agreement
between the control facility and the AFSS/FSS.
2. A pilot requests and all pilots agree that they
will maintain visual separation while operating in
surface area.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN VISUAL SEPARATION FROM (aircraft type).
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-6-1 En Route Flight Advisory Service (EFAS)
Section 6. En Route Flight Advisory Service (EFAS)
4-6-1. GENERAL
The purpose of EFAS, radio call “FLIGHT WATCH”
(FW), is to provide en route aircraft with timely and
pertinent weather data tailored to a specific altitude
and route using the most current available sources of
aviation meteorological information.
4-6-2. POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Prior to assuming the duties of the flight watch
position:
a. Perform a thorough self-briefing by reviewing
available weather data.
b. When relieving a specialist on the FW position,
obtain a preduty briefing from the person being
relieved.
c. When appropriate, obtain a briefing of current
and forecast weather within the flight watch area
(FWA) from the CWSU of the associated ARTCC.
(See para 4-6-5.)
d. Maintain currency of weather conditions and
trends while assigned the FW position by reviewing
new or revised meteorological issuances and by
observing weather trends contained in current
weather reports and PIREPs.
4-6-3. OPERATING PROCEDURES
a. Tailor en route flight advisories to the phase of
flight that begins after climb out and ends with
descent to land. Current weather and terminal
forecast at the airport of first intended landing and/or
the alternate airport shall be provided on request.
When conditions dictate, provide information on
weather for alternate routes and/or altitudes to assist
the pilot in the avoidance of hazardous flight
conditions. Advise the pilot to contact the adjacent
flight watch facility when adverse weather conditions
along the intended route extend beyond the FWA.
b. EFAS shall not be used for routine inflight
services; e.g., flight plan filing, position reporting, or
full route (preflight) briefings. If a request for
information is received that is not within the scope of
EFAS, advise the pilot of the appropriate AFSS/FSS
to contact.
EXAMPLE“Cessna Four Seven Five Eight Xray, Cleveland Flight
Watch, contact Altoona Radio on one two two point four
to file your flight plan.”
c. Suggest route or destination changes to avoid
areas of weather which in the judgment of the
specialist constitute a threat to safe flight.
d. Alert the associated CWS U or WSFO
immediately of reported or observed significant
weather that is not included in aviation forecasts.
4-6-4. FREQUENCIES
a. Use frequency 122.0 mHz to provide EFAS to
aircraft below FL 180.
b. Use the assigned discrete frequency to provide
EFAS to aircraft at FL 180 and above. This frequency
can also be used for communications with aircraft
below FL 180 when communication coverage
permits.
c. Aircraft operating at FL 180 or above that
contact FW on frequency 122.0 mHz should be
advised to change to the discrete frequency for EFAS.
PHRASEOLOGY(Aircraft identification) (facility) FLIGHT WATCH, FOR
SERVICE AT YOUR ALTITUDE, CONTACT FLIGHT
WATCH ON (frequency).
d. Avoid the simultaneous keying of two or more
transmitters on the same frequency. This action can
block or hinder communications.
NOTE-
Frequency 122.0 mHz RCF outlets are geographically
located to ensure communications coverage at 5,000 feet
AGL and above over the conterminous United States.
High altitude discrete frequency RCF outlets are
geographically located to ensure communications
coverage between FL 180 and FL 450 over the EFAS
facility's area of responsibility. Communications practic-
es should be guided by these restrictions.
4-6-5. NWS SUPPORT TO EFAS
The NWS support function for EFAS is as follows:
a. The associated CWSU is designated as the
primary support facility for each EFAS facility. The
CWSU should be contacted at least once per shift for
a general briefing of meteorological conditions
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-6-2 En Route Flight Advisory Service (EFAS)
which are impacting, or expected to impact, aviation
weather within the FW/ARTCC area.
NOTE-
Due to assigned priorities, the CWSU meteorologist may
not be able to provide indepth briefing service for up to
2_hours after the start of the first shift of the CWSU unit.
(See FAAO JO 7210.3, Para 14-3-6, National Weather
Service (NWS) Support, for establishment of operational
support.)
b. During the period when the CWSU is not
available to provide consultation service, WSFOs are
responsible for responding to EFAS facility requests
regarding weather conditions prevailing within the
WSFO area of responsibility. The EFAS specialist
should contact the responsible WSFO directly for
clarification of forecasts or questions concerning
products originated by the WFSO.
NOTE-
The ARTCC/EFAS area may encompass multiple WSFO
areas.
c. Consult with the National Aviation Weather
Advisory Unit (NAWAU), as appropriate, when
further information or clarification is needed
regarding SIGMET, convective SIGMET, AIRMET,
and FA products.
4-6-6. PILOT WEATHER REPORTS
a. Actively solicit and disseminate PIREPs in
accordance with , . Additionally, PIREPs concerning
winds and temperature aloft, windshear, turbulence,
and icing shall be solicited and disseminated when
one or more of these conditions or criteria exists.
Flight Watch specialists shall solicit sufficient
PIREPs to remain aware of flight conditions.
b. Maintain a graphic display of pertinent PIREPs
within the FWA. Periodically review the display and
actively solicit additional PIREPs when necessary to
ensure completeness and accuracy of the informa-
tion.
c. Requests for special solicitation of PIREPs
from other facilities or the NWS shall be honored as
rapidly as operations permit.
4-6-7. GRAPHIC WEATHER DISPLAY
a. Flight watch specialists shall review, (if
available) as a minimum, the graphic display
information (computer “view sequence,” pictorial or
written) listed below prior to assuming FW duties.
Review the chart, computer “view sequence,” and
written data as needed during the watch to update and
maintain a thorough knowledge of weather synoptic
and forecast information affecting aviation opera-
tions.
1. Surface Analysis.
2. Weather Depiction Analysis.
3. National Weather Radar Summary.
4. Lifted Index Analysis.
5. Freezing Level Analysis.
6. 850 mb Upper Air Analysis.
7. 700 mb Upper Air Analysis.
8. 500 mb Upper Air Analysis.
9. 300 mb Upper Air Analysis.
10. 250 mb Upper Air Analysis.
11. 200 mb Upper Air Analysis.
12. 500 mb Heights and Vorticity Analysis.
13. 500 mb Heights and Vorticity Prognosis.
14. High Level Significant Weather Prognosis.
15. 12 and 24-hour Low Level Significant
Weather Prognosis.
16. 36 and 48-hour Low Level Significant
Weather Prognosis.
17. Maximum Temperature 24 and 36-hour
Forecast.
18. Minimum Temperature 24 and 36-hour
Forecast.
19. Winds Aloft Forecast.
20. Severe Weather Outlook.
b. Where hard copy charts are received and locally
enhanced, conform to the standards established in
para 3-1-4.
c. Access local and remote weather displays as
necessary to maintain current knowledge of
precipitation intensity, movement, and coverage.
Provide pertinent real-time weather radar informa-
tion that will directly impact the aircraft's flight.
NOTE-
Specialist judgment should be exercised to determine if
the pilot would be better served by more general
information such as radar summary data when the aircraft
is one hour or more from the destination airport.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
4-6-3 En Route Flight Advisory Service (EFAS)
4-6-8. INTERRUPTIONS TO SERVICE
Notification of temporary outages, either equipment
or operational, shall be made in accordance with
FAAO 7930.2, Notices to Airmen (NOTAM).
Additionally, notify adjacent FWCSs of outages
where overlapping coverage may occur to provide
continuous service.
4-6-9. EMERGENCIES
a. Emergency situations shall be handled in
accordance with Chapter 5.
b. When working an aircraft in an emergency
situation over a remote outlet, the normal procedure
is to provide assistance on the initial contact
frequency. Flight watch specialists should bear in
mind that air traffic facilities based at, or near to, the
remote location may be in a better position to assist
the pilot. A decision to affect a frequency change
should be based on the situation and circumstances
involved in the emergency.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-1-1 General
Chapter 5. Emergency Services
Section 1. General
5-1-1. EMERGENCY DETERMINATION
a. Because of the infinite variety of possible
emergency situations, specific procedures cannot be
prescribed. However, when you believe an emergen-
cy exists or is imminent, select and pursue a course
of action which appears to be most appropriate under
the circumstances, and which most nearly conforms
to the instructions in this manual.
b. An emergency can be either a DISTRESS or
URGENCY condition, as defined in the Pilot/
Controller Glossary.
NOTE-
A pilot who encounters a DISTRESS condition may
declare an emergency by beginning the initial commu-
nication with the word MAYDAY, preferably repeated
three times. For an URGENCY condition, the word
PAN-PAN may be used in the same manner.
c. If the words MAYDAY or PAN-PAN are not
used, and you are in doubt that a situation constitutes
an emergency or potential emergency, handle it as
though it were an emergency.
d. Consider an aircraft emergency exists and
inform the appropriate control facility and the DF net
control (See FAAO JO 7210.3, para 6-3-3, DF Net
Control Position Operation), if not the same, when:
1. An emergency is declared by any of the
following:
(a) The pilot.
(b) Facility personnel.
(c) Officials responsible for the operation of
the aircraft.
2. Reports indicate that the aircraft's operating
efficiency is so impaired that a forced landing may
be/is necessary.
3. Reports indicate the crew has abandoned the
aircraft or is about to do so.
4. Intercept or escort services are requested.
5. The need for ground rescue appears likely.
6. An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT)
signal is heard or reported.
REFERENCE-
Subpara 5-1-2c and para 5-2-8.
5-1-2. RESPONSIBILITY
a. If you are in communication with an aircraft in
distress, handle the emergency and coordinate and
direct the activities of assisting facilities. Transfer
this responsibility to another facility only when you
feel better handling of the emergency will result.
b. When you receive information about an aircraft
in distress, forward detailed data to the appropriate
control facility in whose area the emergency exists.
NOTE-
Notifying the appropriate control facility about a VFR
aircraft emergency allows provision of IFR separation if
considered necessary.
c. The ARTCC is responsible for consolidation of
all pertinent ELT signal information. Notify the
ARTCC of all heard or reported ELT signals.
5-1-3. OBTAINING INFORMATION
Obtain enough information to handle the emergency
intelligently. Base your decision as to what type of
assistance is needed on information and requests
received from the pilot. 14 CFR Part 91 authorizes the
pilot to determine a course of action.
5-1-4. COORDINATION
a. Request necessary assistance from other
facilities as soon as possible, particularly if radar or
DF service is available.
b. Coordinate efforts to the extent possible to
assist any aircraft believed overdue, lost, or in
emergency status.
5-1-5. PROVIDING ASSISTANCE
a. Provide maximum assistance to aircraft in
distress. If the aircraft is transponder equipped and
not on an IFR flight plan, request the pilot to squawk
code 7700.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-1-2 General
PHRASEOLOGY-
REQUEST YOU SQUAWK SEVEN SEVEN ZERO ZERO.
b. Enlist the service of available radar and DF
facilities.
5-1-6. RECORDING INFORMATION
Record all actions taken in the provision of
emergency assistance.
5-1-7. SAFE ALTITUDES FOR
ORIENTATIONS
a. Providing a safe altitude, during an orientation,
is advisory in nature.
b. Safe altitude computations, once the aircraft
position is known, are as follows:
1. Locate the maximum elevation figure on the
appropriate VFR sectional chart.
2. To the maximum elevation figure,
(a) add 1,000 feet over nonmountainous
terrain, or
(b) add 2,000 feet over mountainous terrain.
3. The mountainous/nonmountainous areas are
found in Title 14 CFR, Part 95.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-2-1 Operations
Section 2. Operations
5-2-1. INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
a. Start assistance as soon as enough information
has been obtained upon which to act. Information
requirements will vary, depending on the existing
situation. Minimum required information for inflight
emergencies is:
1. Aircraft identification, type, and transponder.
2. Nature of the emergency.
3. Pilot's desires.
b. After initiating action, provide the altimeter
setting and obtain the following items or any other
pertinent information from the pilot or aircraft
operator as necessary:
1. Aircraft altitude.
2. Fuel remaining in time.
3. Pilot reported weather.
4. Pilot capability for IFR flight.
5. Time and place of last known position.
6. Heading since last known position.
7. Airspeed.
8. Navigation equipment capability.
9. NAVAID signals received.
10. Visible landmarks.
11. Aircraft color.
12. Number of people on board.
13. Point of departure and destination.
14. Emergency equipment on board.
5-2-2. FREQUENCY CHANGES
Provide assistance on the initial contact frequency.
Change frequencies only when there is a valid reason.
5-2-3. AIRCRAFT ORIENTATION
Orient an aircraft by the means most appropriate to
the circumstances. Recognized methods include:
a. Radar.
b. DF.
c. NAVAIDs.
d. Pilotage.
e. Sighting by other aircraft.
5-2-4. ALTITUDE CHANGE FOR
IMPROVED RECEPTION
If deemed necessary, and if weather and circum-
stances permit, recommend the aircraft maintain or
increase altitude to improve communications, radar,
or DF reception.
5-2-5. ALERTING CONTROL FACILITY
When an aircraft is considered to be in emergency
status, alert the appropriate control facility and
forward the following information as available:
a. Facility and person calling.
b. Flight plan, including color of aircraft if known.
c. Time of last transmission received, by whom,
and frequency used.
d. Last known position, estimated present posi-
tion, and maximum range of flight of the aircraft
based on remaining fuel and airspeed.
e. Action taken by reporting facility and proposed
action.
f. Number of persons on board.
g. Fuel status.
h. Position of other aircraft near the aircraft's route
of flight when requested.
i. Whether an ELT signal has been heard or
reported in the vicinity of the last known position.
j. Other pertinent information.
5-2-6. VFR AIRCRAFT IN WEATHER
DIFFICULTY
If a VFR aircraft requests assistance when it
encounters or is about to encounter IFR weather
conditions, request the pilot contact the appropriate
control facility. Inform that facility of the situation.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-2-2 Operations
If the pilot is unable to communicate with the control
facility, relay information and clearances.
5-2-7. AIRCRAFT POSITION PLOTS
Plot the flight path of the aircraft on a chart, including
position reports, predicted positions, possible range
of flight, and any other pertinent information. Solicit
the assistance of other aircraft known to be operating
near the aircraft in distress. Forward the information
to the appropriate control facility.
5-2-8. EMERGENCY LOCATOR
TRANSMITTER (ELT) SIGNALS
When an ELT signal is heard or reported:
a. Notify the ARTCC, who will coordinate with
the Rescue Coordination Center (RCC).
b. If the ELT signal report was received from an
airborne aircraft, attempt to obtain the following
information:
1. The aircraft altitude.
2. Where and when the signal was first heard.
3. Where and when maximum signal was heard.
4. Where and when signal faded or was lost.
Solicit the assistance of other aircraft known to be
operating in the signal area for the same information.
Relay all information obtained to the ARTCC.
c. Attempt to obtain fixes or bearings on the signal
and forward any information obtained to the ARTCC.
NOTE-
Fix information, in relation to a VOR or a VORTAC
(radial distance), facilitates accurate ELT plotting by
RCC and should be provided when possible.
d. In addition to the above, when the ELT signal
strength indicates the transmitter may be on the
airport or in the vicinity, notify the on-site technical
operations services personnel for their action.
e. Air traffic personnel shall not leave their
required duty stations to locate an ELT signal source.
f. Attempt to locate the signal source by checking
all adjacent airports not already checked by other
ATC facilities for the following information:
1. Can ELT signal be heard.
2. Does signal strength indicate transmitter may
be on airport.
3. Can attempt be made to locate and silence
transmitter.
4. Advise the results of any action taken.
Forward all information obtained and action taken to
the ARTCC.
g. Notify the ARTCC if the signal source is
located and whether the aircraft is in distress, plus any
action taken or proposed for silencing the transmitter.
Request person who located signal's source to
attempt to obtain ELT make, model, etc., for relay to
RCC via the ARTCC.
h. Notify the ARTCC if the signal terminates prior
to location of the source.
NOTE1. The ARTCC serves as the contact point for collecting
information and coordinating with the RCC on all ELT
signals.
2. Operational ground testing of ELT has been
authorized during the first 5 minutes of each hour. To
avoid confusing the tests with an actual alarm, the testing
is restricted to no more than three audio sweeps.
3. Portable hand-carried receivers assigned to air traffic
facilities (where no technical operations services
personnel are available) may be loaned to responsible
airport personnel or local authorities to assist in locating
signal source.
5-2-9. EXPLOSIVE CARGO
When you receive information that an emergency
landing will be made with explosive cargo aboard,
inform the pilot of the safest or least congested airport
areas. Relay the explosive cargo information to:
a. The emergency equipment crew.
b. The airport management.
c. The appropriate military agencies when re-
quested by the pilot.
5-2-10. EXPLOSIVE DETECTION DOG
HANDLER TEAMS
Take the following actions upon receipt of a pilot
request for the location of the nearest explosive
detection K-9 team.
a. Obtain the aircraft's identification and current
position and advise the person in charge of the watch
of the pilot's request.
b. Relay the pilot's request to the FAA
Washington Operations Center, AEO-100, (202)
267-3333, and provide the aircraft identification and
position.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-2-3 Operations
c. AEO-100 will provide the nearest location.
Have AEO-100 standby while the information is
relayed to the pilot.
d. If the pilot wishes to divert to the airport
location provided, obtain an estimated arrival time
from the pilot and advise the person in charge of the
watch.
e. After the aircraft destination has been deter-
mined, estimate the arrival time and advise
AEO-100. AEO-100 will then notify the appropriate
airport authority at the diversion airport. In the event
the K-9 team is not available at this airport,
AEO-100 will advise the air traffic facility and
provide them with the secondary location. Relay this
to the pilot concerned for appropriate action.
REFERENCE-
FAAO 7210.3, Para 2-1-10, Explosives Detection K-9 Teams.
5-2-11. INFLIGHT EQUIPMENT
MALFUNCTIONS
When a pilot reports an inflight equipment
malfunction, take the following action:
a. Request the nature and extent of any special
handling desired.
NOTE14 CFR Part 91 requires the pilot in command of each
aircraft operated in controlled airspace under IFR shall
report as soon as practical to ATC any malfunctions of
navigational, approach, or communication equipment
occurring in flight. This includes the degree to which the
capability of the aircraft to operate IFR in the air traffic
control system is impaired and the nature and extent of any
assistance desired from air traffic control.
b. Provide the maximum assistance possible
consistent with equipment, workload, and any
special handling requested.
c. Relay any special handling required or being
provided to other specialists or facilities who will
subsequently handle the aircraft.
5-2-12. NAVY FLEET SUPPORT MISSIONS
Handle Navy Fleet Support Missions aircraft as
follows:
a. When you receive information concerning an
emergency to a U.S. Navy Special Flight Number
aircraft, inform the nearest ARTCC of all pertinent
information.
b. Relay the words SPECIAL FLIGHT NUM-
BER followed by the number given as part of the
routine IFR flight information.
5-2-13. COUNTRIES IN THE SPECIAL
INTEREST FLIGHT PROGRAM
Upon receipt of any flight movement data on an
aircraft registered in a communist-controlled
country, notify the supervisor and the appropriate
ARTCC immediately. Additionally, if the aircraft is
making an emergency or an unscheduled landing in
the United States, notify the nearest Bureau of
Customs and Border Protection office.
NOTE-
Communist-controlled countries include Albania, Bul-
garia, Cambodia, Peoples Republic of China, Cuba,
North Korea, Outer Mongolia, Romania, Former USSR
countries recognized as the Russian Federation Common-
wealth of Independent States, and Socialist Republic of
Vietnam.
5-2-14. MINIMUM FUEL
If an aircraft declares a state of “minimum fuel,”
inform any facility to whom control jurisdiction is
transferred of the minimum fuel problem and be alert
for any occurrence which might delay the aircraft en
route.
NOTE-
Use of the term minimum fuel indicates recognition by a
pilot that the fuel supply has reached a state whereupon
reaching destination, any undue delay cannot be
accepted. This is not an emergency situation, but merely
an advisory that indicates an emergency situation is
possible should any undue delay occur. A minimum fuel
advisory does not imply a need for traffic priority.
Common sense and good judgment will determine the
extent of assistance to be given in minimum fuel
situations. If, at any time, the remaining usable fuel supply
suggests the need for traffic priority to ensure a safe
landing, the pilot should declare an emergency and report
fuel remaining in minutes.
5-2-15. AIRCRAFT BOMB THREATS
a. When information is received from any source
that a bomb has been placed on, in, or near an aircraft
for the purpose of damaging or destroying such
aircraft, notify the supervisor or facility manager. If
the threat is general in nature, handle it as a suspicious
activity. When the threat is targeted against a specific
aircraft and you are in contact with that aircraft, take
the following actions as appropriate:
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-2-4 Operations
NOTE1. Facility supervisors are expected to notify the
appropriate offices, agencies, and operators/air carriers
according to applicable plans, directives, FAAO
JO_7210.3, Facility Operation and Administration, or
military directives.
2. Suspicious activity is covered in FAAO JO 7210.3,
Facility Operation and Administration. Military facilities
would report a general threat through the chain of
command or according to service directives.
3. A specific threat may be directed at an aircraft registry
or tail number, the air carrier flight number, the name of
an operator, crew member or passenger, the departure/
arrival point or times, or combinations thereof.
1. Advise the pilot of the threat.
2. Inform the pilot that technical assistance can
be obtained from an FAA aviation explosives expert.
NOTE-
An FAA aviation explosives expert is on call at all times
and may be contacted by calling the FAA Operations
Center, Washington, DC, (202) 267-3333,
ETN 521-0111, or DSN 851-3750. Technical advice can
be relayed to assist civil or military air crews in their
search for a bomb and in determining what precautionary
action to take if one is found.
3. Ask if the pilot desires to climb or descend to
an altitude that would equalize or reduce the outside
air pressure/existing cabin air pressure differential.
Obtain and relay an appropriate clearance consider-
ing MEA, MOCA, MRA, and weather.
NOTE-
Equalizing existing cabin air pressure with outside air
pressure is a key step which the pilot may wish to take to
minimize the damage potential of a bomb.
4. Handle the aircraft as an emergency, and/or
provide the most expeditious handling possible with
respect to the safety of other aircraft, ground
facilities, and personnel.
NOTE-
Emergency handling is discretionary and should be based
on the situation. With certain types of threats, plans may
call for a low-key action or response.
5. Obtain and relay clearance to a new
destination, if requested.
6. When a pilot requests technical assistance or
if it is apparent that such assistance is needed, do
NOT suggest what actions the pilot should take
concerning a bomb, but obtain the following
information and notify the supervisor who will
contact the FAA aviation explosives expert:
NOTE-
This information is needed by the FAA aviation explosives
expert so that the situation can be assessed and immediate
recommendations made to the pilot. The aviation
explosives expert may not be familiar with all military
aircraft configurations but can offer technical assistance
which would be beneficial to the pilot.
(a) Type, series, and model of the aircraft.
(b) Precise location/description of the bomb
device if known.
(c) Other details which may be pertinent.
NOTE-
The following details may be of significance if known, but
it is not intended that the pilot should disturb a suspected
bomb/bomb container to ascertain the information:
1. The altitude or time set for the bomb to explode.
2. Type of detonating action (barometric, time, antihandling, remote radio transmitter).
3. Power source (battery, electrical, mechanical).
4. Type of initiator (blasting cap, flash bulb, chemical).
5. Type of explosive/incendiary charge (dynamite, black
powder, chemical).
b. When a bomb threat involves an aircraft on the
ground and you are in contact with the suspect
aircraft, take the following actions in addition to
those discussed in the preceding paragraphs which
may be appropriate:
1. If the aircraft is at an airport where tower
control or LAA is not available, or if the pilot ignores
the threat at any airport, recommend that takeoff be
delayed until the pilot or aircraft operator establishes
that a bomb is not aboard in accordance with 14 CFR
Part 121. If the pilot insists on taking off, and in your
opinion the operation will not adversely affect other
traffic, issue or relay an ATC clearance.
REFERENCE14 CFR Part 121.537.
2. Advise the aircraft to remain as far away from
other aircraft and facilities as possible, to clear the
runway, if appropriate, and to taxi to an isolated or
designated search area. When it is impractical or if the
pilot takes an alternative action, such as parking and
offloading immediately, advise other aircraft to
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-2-5 Operations
remain clear of the suspect aircraft by at least
100_yards, if able.
NOTE-
Passenger deplaning may be of paramount importance
and must be considered before the aircraft is parked or
moved away from the service areas. The decision to use
ramp facilities rests with the pilot, aircraft operator,
and/or airport manager.
c. If you are unable to inform the suspect aircraft
of a bomb threat or if you lose contact with the
aircraft, advise your supervisor and relay pertinent
details to other sectors or facilities as deemed
necessary.
d. When a pilot reports the discovery of a bomb or
suspected bomb on an aircraft which is airborne or on
the ground, determine the pilot's intentions and
comply with his/her requests insofar as possible.
Take all the actions discussed in the preceding
paragraphs which may be appropriate under the
existing circumstances.
e. The handling of aircraft when a hijacker has or
is suspected of having a bomb requires special
considerations. Be responsive to the pilot's requests
and notify supervisory personnel. Apply hijacking
procedures and, if needed, offer assistance to the pilot
according to the preceding paragraphs.
5-2-16. SECURITY CONTROL OF AIR
TRAFFIC AND NAVIGATION AIDS
(SCATANA)
a. The SCATANA Plan outlines responsibilities,
procedures, and instructions for the security control
of civil and military air traffic and NAVAIDs under
various emergency conditions.
b. When notified of SCATANA implementation,
follow the instructions of FAA Form 7610-1 and any
additional instructions received from the ARTCC.
1. To ensure that SCATANA actions can be
taken expeditiously, periodic SCATANA tests will be
conducted in connection with NORAD exercises.
Tests may be local, regional, or national in scope.
2. AFSS/FSS facilities will participate in tests
except where such participation will involve the
safety of aircraft.
3. During SCATANA tests, all actions will be
simulated.
REFERENCE-
FAAO JO 7610.4, Special Operations.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-3-1 Direction Finder (DF) Service
Section 3. Direction Finder (DF) Service
5-3-1. ACTIONS REQUIRED
When providing DF services to an aircraft in
emergency status:
a. Determine if the aircraft is in VFR or IFR
weather conditions, fuel remaining, altitude, and
heading.
b. If the aircraft is operating in IFR weather
conditions, coordinate with the appropriate control
facility.
c. Determine if the aircraft is on a flight plan. If the
aircraft is not on an IFR flight plan and is in VFR
weather conditions, advise the pilot to remain VFR.
d. Alert the DF net whenever the following
conditions exist:
1. The pilot is lost.
2. An emergency is declared.
NOTE-
It is not necessary to alert the DF net if a terminal
controller visually sights the aircraft.
5-3-2. VFR DF SERVICE
a. Provide DF service to VFR aircraft when either
of the following conditions exist:
1. The pilot requests the service.
2. You suggest the service and the pilot concurs.
b. Advise the pilot to remain VFR, and provide
local altimeter setting.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN V-F-R AT ALL TIMES. ADVISE IF
HEADING OR ALTITUDE CHANGE IS NECESSARY TO
REMAIN V-F-R. (location) ALTIMETER (setting).
c. Obtain heading and altitude. Advise the pilot to
maintain straight and level flight and to align the
heading indicator with the magnetic compass.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN STRAIGHT AND LEVEL FLIGHT. RESET
YOUR HEADING INDICATOR TO AGREE WITH YOUR
MAGNETIC COMPASS. AFTER YOU HAVE DONE
THIS, SAY YOUR HEADING AND ALTITUDE.
d. Determine the weather and fuel conditions.
PHRASEOLOGY-
WHAT IS THE WEATHER AT YOUR ALTITUDE AND
FUEL REMAINING IN TIME?
e. Advise the pilot to maintain the same heading,
request type of navigational equipment, and airspeed.
PHRASEOLOGY-
CONTINUE HEADING (degrees). WHAT TYPE OF
NAVIGATIONAL EQUIPMENT DO YOU HAVE ON
BOARD AND WHAT IS YOUR AIRSPEED?
f. While receiving the reply, determ ine the
bearing. After determining the aircraft's bearing,
provide DF service by informing the pilot of the
following:
1. Direction of turn.
2. Magnetic heading, spoken in three digits (do
not state the word “degrees.”) All headings will be
provided in increments of 5 degrees.
3. Nature of service.
4. Microphone instructions.
5. Request for report when airport is in sight.
PHRASEOLOGY-
TURN LEFT/RIGHT HEADING (degrees) FOR D-F
GUIDANCE TO (name of airport, fix, or location).
WHEN A REQUEST FOR TRANSMISSION IS
RECEIVED, PRESS YOUR MICROPHONE BUTTON
FOR THE SPECIFIED NUMBER OF SECONDS
FOLLOWED BY YOUR AIRCRAFT IDENTIFICATION.
and if appropriate,
REPORT (name) AIRPORT IN SIGHT.
g. Provide pertinent information on known field
conditions and latest weather information at the
destination airport.
h. Request the pilot to transmit for specified
periods (normally 5-10 seconds), as required. The
frequency of these requests will vary depending on
such factors as wind, frequency congestion, and
distance, but should be made at least once each
minute until the pilot reports the airport in sight or the
service is terminated.
PHRASEOLOGY-
TRANSMIT (number) SECONDS.
TURN LEFT/RIGHT, HEADING (degrees), or
CONTINUE HEADING (degrees).
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-3-2 Direction Finder (DF) Service
i. Inform the pilot when DF service is terminated
and provide the (CTAF) frequency, if appropriate,
and the local altimeter setting.
PHRASEOLOGY-
D-F ORIENTATION SERVICE TERMINATED.
COMMON TRAFFIC ADVISORY FREQUENCY
(frequency) ALTIMETER (setting).
NOTE-
Service may be terminated when airport is in sight, the
desired fix or location is reached, practice steers or
approaches are discontinued, etc.
j. Notify DF net when service is terminated.
5-3-3. DF FIXING BY NET
When the DF net is in operation, determine the
aircraft's position as follows:
a. Tell the pilot to transmit for 10 seconds.
b. Plot the bearings obtained from two or more
antenna sites. Inform the pilot of the aircraft's
position, and the safe altitude for orientation in that
area.
NOTE-
The ARTCC or AFSS/FSS designated as DF net control is
responsible for evaluating and plotting bearings received
from individual antenna sites.
5-3-4. DF FIXING BY ONE FACILITY
One DF facility can determine an aircraft's location
by:
a. Plotting the position from a VOR or ADF and
an observed DF bearing.
b. Time method.
1. Determine the aircraft's heading and DF
bearing.
2. Tell the pilot to turn left or right, whichever
requires the lesser amount of turn, to a heading
perpendicular to the DF bearing.
3. After turn is completed, tell the pilot to
transmit (normally 5-10 seconds). Observe the DF
bearing.
4. One minute later, request another transmis-
sion. Determine bearing and turn aircraft toward the
DF site.
5. Divide the difference in bearings (steps 3 and
4) into 60. The result is the number of minutes the
aircraft is from the DF site.
NOTE-
One station DF fixing is based on zero winds.
EXAMPLE-
Original bearing of 360 and aircraft heading of 200, the
pilot should be advised to turn right to a heading of 270.
Observe bearing, wait 1 minute, and observe bearing. If
the first bearing (after completion of turn) was 337 and the
second bearing was 325, a difference of 12, the aircraft is
5 minutes from the DF site.
c. Distance method.
1. Use the procedures specified in steps 1
through 4 in subpara 5-3-4b.
2. Request the aircraft's true airspeed.
3. Compute the distance by dividing the bearing
change (for 1 minute) into the airspeed figure.
EXAMPLE140 airspeed divided by 10 (bearing change for 1 minute)
= 14 miles from DF site.
d. After the aircraft's position is determined,
provide this information, and the safe altitude for
orientation in that area.
5-3-5. EMERGENCY DF APPROACH
PROCEDURE
a. Under emergency conditions where a standard
instrument approach cannot be executed, provide DF
guidance and instrument approach service, if
available, as follows:
1. Obtain and relay ATC clearance including
radio failure procedures.
2. Issue destination airport weather.
3. Provide guidance as specified in VFR DF
Service, para 5-3-2, except delete the VFR
requirement. To avoid large turns over the DF site, the
aircraft should be guided to pass over the DF site
established on the course that the pilot will maintain
on the outbound leg of the approach.
PHRASEOLOGY-
TURN LEFT/RIGHT, HEADING (degrees) FOR D-F
GUIDANCE AND APPROACH TO THE (name)
AIRPORT. MAINTAIN (altitude specified by ATC).
WHEN A REQUEST FOR TRANSMISSION IS
RECEIVED, PRESS YOUR MICROPHONE BUTTON
FOR THE SPECIFIED NUMBER OF SECONDS
FOLLOWED BY YOUR AIRCRAFT IDENTIFICATION.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-3-3 Direction Finder (DF) Service
REPORT AIRPORT IN SIGHT. IF NO TRANSMISSION
IS RECEIVED FOR (time of interval) PROCEED V-F-R.
IF UNABLE, PROCEED (routing, fix, altitude as
specified by ATC). CONTACT (facility) ON (frequency).
b. Inform the pilot when the aircraft is over the DF
site. Advise pilot to perform landing check, and
provide guidance for outbound track.
PHRASEOLOGY-
OVER (ABEAM) D-F SITE, PERFORM LANDING
CHECK. CONTINUE HEADING (degrees) or TURN
LEFT/RIGHT, HEADING (degrees). REPORT
ESTABLISHED HEADING (degrees).
c. Provide DF approach guidance in accordance
with the triangle or teardrop approach procedures as
specified on FAA Form 8260-10.
1. Triangle Approach Pattern.
(a) Time the outbound leg and issue descent
information. Normally, the outbound track should be
maintained for 3 minutes, but this may be adjusted
depending on airspeed and nature of the emergency.
Time intervals between bearing observations should
not exceed 15 seconds.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ON OUTBOUND LEG. DESCEND AND MAINTAIN
(altitude specified on FAA Form 8260-10 for outbound
course).
(b) When outbound leg is completed, issue
turn instructions so that the aircraft's course is
perpendicular to the final approach course. Issue
further descent information if so specified on FAA
Form 8260-10. Issue missed approach procedures as
specified on FAA Form 8260-10.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ON BASE LEG. IN CASE OF MISSED APPROACH,
CLIMB TO (altitude) ON COURSE (degrees) WITHIN
(number) MILES.
(c) At least two turns should be made onto
final approach.
(d) When the aircraft is on final approach,
advise the pilot to start descent and provide minimum
descent altitude and field elevation information. Take
bearings more frequently. Time intervals between
bearing observations should not exceed 5 seconds
during the estimated last 30 seconds of the approach.
PHRASEOLOGY-
ON FINAL APPROACH, BEGIN DESCENT. MINIMUM
DESCENT ALTITUDE (altitude), FIELD ELEVATION
(elevation). REPORT RUNWAY IN SIGHT.
(e) If the aircraft misses the approach, inform
the appropriate control facility.
2. Teardrop Approach Pattern.
(a) Provide guidance to establish the aircraft
on the outbound course. Issue descent information, if
appropriate. Time intervals between bearing observa-
tions should not exceed 15 seconds.
(b) Issue direction of turn and inbound
heading information. Issue missed approach proce-
dures as specified on FAA Form 8260-10.
(c) When procedure turn is complete, provide
directional guidance and issue descent information.
The time intervals between the bearing observations
should not exceed 5 seconds during the estimated last
30 seconds of the approach.
(d) If aircraft misses the approach, inform the
appropriate control facility.
JO 7110.10T 2/14/08
5-4-1 ADF/VOR Orientation
Section 4. ADF/VOR Orientation
5-4-1. ACTIONS REQUIRED
When providing ADF/VOR orientation services to
an aircraft in emergency status:
a. Determine if the aircraft is in VFR or IFR
weather conditions, fuel remaining, altitude, and
heading.
b. If the aircraft is operating in IFR weather
conditions, coordinate with the appropriate control
facility.
c. Determine if the aircraft is on a flight plan. If the
aircraft is not on an IFR flight plan and is in VFR
weather conditions, advise the pilot to remain VFR.
5-4-2. ADF ORIENTATION/ADF CROSSFIX
When using ADF orientation and/or crossfix
procedures, determine the aircraft's position as
follows:
a. Position Fixing.
1. Advise the pilot to remain VFR, and provide
local altimeter setting.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN V-F-R AT ALL TIMES. ADVISE IF
HEADING OR ALTITUDE CHANGE IS NECESSARY TO
REMAIN V-F-R. (Location) ALTIMETER (setting).
2. Obtain heading and altitude. Advise the pilot
to maintain straight and level flight and to align the
heading indicator with the magnetic compass.
PHRASEOLOGY-
MAINTAIN STRAIGHT AND LEVEL FLIGHT. RESET
YOUR HEADING INDICATOR TO AGREE WITH YOUR
MAGNETIC COMPASS. AFTER YOU HAVE DONE
THIS, SAY YOUR HEADING AND ALTITUDE.
3. Determine the weather and the fuel condi-
tions.
PHRASEOLOGY-
WHAT IS THE WEATHER AT YOUR ALTITUDE AND
FUEL REMAINING IN TIME?
4. Advise the pilot to maintain the sam e
heading, verify the aircraft has ADF equipment, and
determine the airspeed.
PHRASEOLOGY-
CONTINUE HEADING (degrees). WHAT TYPE OF
NAVIGATIONAL EQUIPMENT DO YOU HAVE ON
BOARD, AND WHAT IS YOUR AIRSPEED?
5. Advise the pilot to tune the ADF receiver to
the NDB. Provide the NDB name, identifier, and
frequency.
PHRASEOLOGY-
TUNE YOUR A-D-F RECEIVER TO THE (name)
RADIO BEACON, FREQUENCY (frequency),
IDENTIFICATION (ident). CHECK VOLUME UP AND
IDENTIFY THE STATION. ADVISE WHEN YOU HAVE
DONE THIS.
