Communications, Light Signals,
and Runway Lighting Systems Lesson Plan

Introduction:

  • To determine that the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with normal and emergency radio communications, ATC light signals, and runway lighting systems to conduct safe airport operations
  • References: FAA-S-ACS-6, 14 CFR part 91; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-25; AIM

Attention:

  • Research a Taxiing case studies
  • Discuss how the initial conditions developed into an incident/accident/mishap
  • Relate similar personal experience of the same type of incident/accident/mishap

Motivator:

  • Traffic Pattern procedures develop the ability to stay safely and efficiently arrive at an uncontrolled airport, or after arrival, utilize the traffic pattern
  • The traffic pattern is comprised of several components which standardized flow of aircraft, at a specific altitude within the terminal area
  • This standard flow allows for predictability in an otherwise extremely dangerous environment
  • The traffic pattern is the ultimate goal which began with the rectangular course with many hazards

Overview:

Topic:
Time:
Introduction:
0:05
Taxiing:
0:15
Review (quiz):
0:05
Case Studies:
0:05
Total Ground Time:
0:30

Required Materials:

  • Paper, Pen, Marker, Whiteboard

Instructor Actions:

Student Actions:

  • Complete assigned reading (see content above)
  • Ask pertinent questions
  • Make a go/no-go decision, as appropriate

Private Pilot - Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems Airman Certification Standards:

  • To determine that the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with normal and emergency radio communications, ATC light signals, and runway lighting systems to conduct safe airport operations
  • References: 14 CFR part 91; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-25; AIM

Knowledge:

The applicant must demonstrate an understanding of:

  • PA.III.A.K1:

    How to obtain proper radio frequencies

  • PA.III.A.K2:

    Proper radio communication procedures and ATC phraseology

  • PA.III.A.K3:

    ATC light signal recognition

  • PA.III.A.K4:

    Appropriate use of transponders

  • PA.III.A.K5:

    Lost communication procedures

  • PA.III.A.K6:

    Equipment issues that could cause loss of communication

  • PA.III.A.K7:

    Radar assistance

  • PA.III.A.K8:

    National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident/incident reporting

  • PA.III.A.K9:

    Runway Status Lighting Systems

Risk Management:

The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess, and mitigate risks, encompassing:

  • PA.III.A.R1:

    Poor communication

  • PA.III.A.R2:

    Failure to recognize and declare an emergency

  • PA.III.A.R3:

    Confirmation or expectation bias

Skills:

The applicant demonstrates the ability to:

  • PA.III.A.S1:

    Select appropriate frequencies

  • PA.III.A.S2:

    Transmit using phraseology and procedures as specified in the AIM

  • PA.III.A.S3:

    Acknowledge radio communications and comply with instructions

Re-Motivation:

Closure:

  • Advise students that this lesson will be used as a starting point for the next lesson
  • Assign study materials for the next lesson