Quick ATC Phrase Guide for Student Pilots

Clear communication with ATC intimidates many student pilots. Here are the essential phrases you’ll use on almost every flight, along with what they mean and when to use them.

Initial Contact

“[Facility], [Callsign], [Position], [Altitude], [Request]”

Example: “Centennial Ground, Cessna 12345, at the FBO with information Alpha, ready to taxi, VFR to Boulder.”

Keep it brief. Give them who you are, where you are, and what you want.

Readback Essentials

Always read back:

• Runway assignments
• Altimeter settings
• Heading assignments
• Altitude assignments
• Hold short instructions

Say the callsign at the end of your readback, not the beginning.

Common Phrases

“Say again” — I didn’t understand, please repeat.

“Standby” — Wait, I’ll get back to you.

“Unable” — I cannot comply with that instruction.

“Wilco” — Will comply (only use for instructions, not information).

“Affirmative/Negative” — Yes/No (clearer than just “yes” or “no” on radio).

Position Reports

At non-towered airports: “[Airport] traffic, [Callsign], [Position], [Intentions], [Airport].”

Example: “Boulder traffic, Cessna 345, left downwind runway 8, touch and go, Boulder.”

When in Doubt

If you’re confused, ask for clarification: “Cessna 345, say again?” ATC would rather repeat than deal with a misunderstanding. They’re there to help you.

Practice these phrases on the ground until they become natural. Radio calls should flow, not fumble.