VFR Arrival - P-8060051

SNFO/SWSO VOICE COMMUNICATIONS

CHAPTER TWO

If departing VFR, Departure will eventually tell you: "frequency change approved." You then

switch to a frequency that is not controlled by an air traffic controller. Use of these frequencies

does not require strict or close control. These frequencies are referred to as working, common,

or advisory frequencies. During T-34/T-6 training at TW-6 you will switch to Area 1 Common

Frequency (see inflight guide for channel number). You will remain on this frequency until

entering airspace that requires communication with an ARTCC controller. When planning to

return to base (RTB), contact Pensacola Approach prior to entering Class C airspace.

209. VFR ARRIVAL

Returning to base for a VFR arrival can be done whether on a VFR or IFR flight plan. At NAS

Pensacola we refer to the VFR arrival as "course rules." Converting an IFR flight plan to a VFR

arrival will be discussed later in Chapter 3.

When complete in Area 1, switch and listen to ATIS for current field information. Remember

you are still outside of controlled airspace so you can switch between "common" frequencies at

your discretion. The only restriction is that you reestablish radio communications with approach

prior to penetrating class "C" airspace.

Recall that since you are VFR and squawking 1200, approach control is not closely monitoring

your position. You are one of many VFR aircraft. A general rule of thumb when initiating

communication with an air traffic controller for VFR entry into controlled airspace is to always

state: who you are (call sign), where you are (altitude and/or position), and what your intentions

are (entry into controlled airspace, flight following, etc.).

After copying ATIS, and approaching the VFR course rules entry point, switch to Pensacola

Approach and make the following call:

Example

SNFO/SWSO:

"Approach, BUCK 710, 3500, information

ECHO, request course rules."

You told the controller who you are (BUCK 710), where you are (3500 ft), and your intentions

(course rules). In this case you can omit your position since the controller expects you to be near

the course rules initial (Jack Edwards Field). Report your actual position if not at the expected

initial point. The controller will reply with a squawk.

Example

ATC:

"BUCK 710, squawk 4136, remain clear of class

"C" airspace."

SNFO/SWSO:

"BUCK 710, squawk 4136, wilco."

Until you enter the discrete squawk and approach radar identifies the given transponder code,

you must remain clear of class "C" airspace.

GROUND AND VFR COMMUNICATIONS

2-11