Civilian Terms

SNFO/SWSO VOICE COMMUNICATIONS

CHAPTER ONE

ADVISE INTENTIONS - Tell me what you plan to do.

Example

APPROACH:

"BUCK 712, advise intentions after touch and

go."

SNFO/SWSO:

"BUCK 712, request PAR, full stop."

AFFIRMATIVE - Yes.

ALTITUDE RESTRICTIONS - An altitude or altitudes stated in the order flown which are

to be maintained until reaching a specific point or time. Altitude restrictions may be issued by

ATC due to traffic, terrain or other simple considerations.

5. BLOCKED - Phraseology used to indicate that a radio transmission has been distorted or

interrupted due to multiple simultaneous radio transmissions. The controller may sometimes use

the terms "stepped on" or "blocked".

6. BREAK - Controller makes a string of transmissions pertaining to different aircraft,

separated by "break". Because the controller is busy, no response from any aircraft is expected

nor desired. (Not listed in the pilot/controller glossary, but commonly used.)

Example

CONTROLLER:

"BUCK 712, expect higher in 15 miles, break,

KATT 811 say your request."

7. BUTTON/CHANNEL - Standard frequencies for your operating area will be entered into

your radio as one of 20 preset, selectable "buttons" or "channels." For example, Sherman Tower

frequency 340.2 is preset channel 4. (Not listed in the pilot/controller glossary, but commonly

used.)

Example

APPROACH:

"KATT 833, contact Tower button 4."

SNFO/SWSO:

"KATT 833, switching button 4."

8. CAVU - Pronounced "cavoo". An acronym for "Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited." This

denotes good weather. (Not listed in the pilot/controller glossary, but commonly used.)

9. CLEARANCE LIMIT - The fix, point, or location to which an aircraft is cleared when

issued an ATC clearance.

Example

CLEARANCE:

"KATT 821 is cleared to Navy Pensacola via

direct NSE as filed..."

TECHNIQUE AND TERMINOLOGY 1-15