Ground Controlled Approach (GCA)

SNFO/SWSO VOICE COMMUNICATIONS

CHAPTER THREE

From this point, the approach is flown with no further communication until approach

switches you to Tower.

CONTROLLER:

"KATT 814, contact Tower on 119.9."

SNFO/ SWSO:

"KATT 814, switching."

After switching to Tower:

SNFO/SWSO:

"Pensacola Tower, KATT 814, inside of Brent on

the ILS (Localizer) three down and locked, full-

stop."

CONTOLLER:

"KATT 814, roger cleared to land runway 17."

SNFO/ SWSO:

"KATT 814, cleared to land."

318. GROUND CONTROLLED APPROACH (GCA)

Example

SNFO/SWSO:

"Pensacola Approach, KATT 832, 9000,

information MIKE, request PAR, full stop."

A ground controlled approach will be flown on a discrete frequency called single frequency

approach (SFA). Only your aircraft will be on that frequency so as to not confuse the pilot while

shooting the approach. When on the downwind leg of a GCA, and in IMC, the controller should

initiate communications at least once every minute to ensure radio communication is retained.

However, during the final approach portion of the GCA, the controller must make calls at least

every 5 seconds for a PAR or 15 seconds for an ASR regardless of the weather. This ensures

there is good communication while the aircraft is descending towards the runway.

Example (continued):

APPROACH:

"KATT 832, contact me on 353.8."

SNFO/SWSO:

"KATT 832, switching 353.8."

When the controller says "me," he/she means it literally. Oftentimes, Approach Controllers are

monitoring multiple frequencies. Report switching 353.8 and then check in by reporting

"Approach, KATT 832, 353.8." Since you are talking to the same controller, repeating your

altitude is not necessary since you are only verifying that both parties hear each other loud and

clear on the discrete frequency. If it is the same approach facility with a different controller,

check in using normal terminology (i.e., include altitude, etc.).

Vectors will commence to intercept the final approach course for the type approach desired. On

a precision approach, the controller transitions the aircraft to the final approach via heading and

altitude changes. Turns and descents should be initiated immediately after instructions are

received. On an ASR approach, headings and, if requested, recommended altitudes are relayed

IFR COMMUNICATIONS

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