6 / 20

Which of the following best describes the procedure for relaying operational (i.e. non urgent) radio messages?

  • A

    Aircraft stations may not relay messages unless they are distress or urgency messages

  • B

    Aircraft stations may use any means available to transmit messages to the ATSU if unable to communicate directly

  • C

    Aircraft stations may relay messages to an ATSU only when requested to do so by the ATSU

  • D

    Aircraft stations must not relay messages to other aircraft stations

In aviation, a relayed message refers to the process of transmitting information from one source to another through an intermediary. This can involve a variety of messages, including flight plans, weather updates, and air traffic control instructions, and is essential for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and regularity of air travel.

In this question scenario, an aircraft is using another aircraft to pass the message along to an Air Traffic Service Unit (ATSU). Reasons to do so are typically because the original aircraft is out of range or too low in respect to terrain to be able to communicate properly with the ATSU.

ICAO Doc 9432
9.5 AIRCRAFT COMMUNICATIONS FAILURE

9.5.6 When an aeronautical station has been unable to establish contact with an aircraft after calls on the frequencies on which the aircraft is believed to be listening, it shall:

a) request other aeronautical stations to render assistance by calling the aircraft and relaying traffic, if necessary; and/or
b) request aircraft on the route to attempt to establish communication with the aircraft and relay messages, if necessary.

ICAO Annex 10, Volume II
5.3.2 Radiotelephony distress communications

5.3.2.2 Action by the station addressed or first station acknowledging the distress message
5.3.2.2.1 The station addressed by aircraft in distress, or first station acknowledging the distress message, shall:

a) immediately acknowledge the distress message;
b) take control of the communications or specifically and clearly transfer that responsibility, advising the aircraft if a transfer is made;
c) take immediate action to ensure that all necessary information is made available, as soon as possible, to:

1) the ATS unit concerned;
2) the aircraft operating agency concerned, or its representative, in accordance with pre-established arrangements;
Note: The requirement to inform the aircraft operating agency concerned does not have priority over any other action which involves the safety of the flight in distress, or of any other flight in the area, or which might affect the progress of expected flights in the area.

d) warn other stations, as appropriate, in order to prevent the transfer of traffic to the frequency of the distress communication.

Your Notes (not visible to others)



This question has appeared on the real examination, you can find the related countries below.

Keyboard Shortcut Use Keyboard Shortcuts