What action should you take if you receive an instruction you cannot comply with as stated?

• A. Ignore the instruction and continue.
• B. Acknowledge receipt, request clarification or modification, and comply if a reasonable alternative is provided.
• C. Immediately shut down radio.
• D. Deny the instruction without explanation.

Answer: (B)

When you can’t follow an instruction as given, the priority is to keep communication clear and safe while finding a workable path forward. The best approach is to acknowledge that you’ve received the instruction, request clarification or a modification, and proceed with a reasonable alternative if one is provided. This shows you heard the directive, prevents misunderstanding, and keeps operations on a safe track.

Acknowledging receipt ensures the other party knows you’re attentive and not ignoring them. Asking for clarification or a modification avoids guessing what was intended, which could lead to unsafe actions. Offering to comply with a reasonable alternative demonstrates cooperation and a commitment to following policy while maintaining safety. If no feasible alternative exists, you can escalate or seek guidance through proper channels, rather than guessing or abandoning the task.

Other responses undermine safety and reliability. Ignoring the instruction can cause miscommunication and unsafe actions. Shutting down the radio immediately cuts off critical communications. Denying the instruction without explanation creates confusion and can escalate risk.