Communications
Last updated: April 21, 2026 · Maintained by Aviatr Editorial Team
Communications is a core PPL theoretical knowledge subject that covers standard ICAO radiotelephony (RTF) phraseology, phonetic alphabet and figure pronunciation, radio propagation principles, communication equipment and frequencies (HF, VHF, emergency 121.5 MHz), distress and urgency procedures (MAYDAY and PAN PAN calls), transponder codes (squawk), SELCAL, VOLMET, ATIS, and ground-to-air communication procedures including clearances and readbacks. The subject emphasises the precision and standardisation required to avoid misunderstandings in a multinational aviation environment. Many questions test specific phraseology — knowing the exact wording of a readback, position report, or distress call. Practise using the ICAO phonetic alphabet daily and study the ICAO PANS-ATM Doc 4444 procedures for common scenarios.