Which of the following best describes the correct structure of an air-ground radio call when establishing contact with ATC?

• A. State your request only
• B. Identify the aircraft and state your position/altitude
• C. Identify the aircraft, specify position/altitude, state your intent or request, and use 'over'
• D. Use only 'over' at the end

Answer: (C)

Establishing contact with ATC requires a clear, complete transmission that identifies the aircraft, states position and altitude, communicates the intended action or request, and ends with “over” to signal you’re finished speaking and awaiting a reply. This structure lets ATC quickly determine who you are, where you are, what you want, and when to respond. For example: “N12345, five miles north, altitude 3,500 feet, requesting vectors to final, over.” If you only state a request, ATC has no idea who you are or where you are. If you identify the aircraft and your position/altitude but omit your intent, ATC can see who you are and where you are but won’t know what you want. Ending with only “over” misses the essential details entirely. Including all four elements ensures safe, efficient communication and clear coordination.