What Happens When Pilots Lose Radio Contact Mid-Flight

They Try Backup Radio Channel

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They Attempt the Other Radio Set

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They Use Transponder Codes

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They Follow Pre-Filed Flight Path

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They Look for Light Signals From the Tower

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They Use Standard Lost-Comm Procedures

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They Land Safely Even Without Contact

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What Happens When Pilots Lose Radio Contact Mid-Flight

They Try Backup Radio Channel

Pilots instantly switch frequencies and test alternative channels to reach ATC again.

They Attempt the Other Radio Set

Airliners carry multiple radios, and pilots quickly jump to the second one to restore communication.

They Use Transponder Codes

If radios fail, pilots set a special transponder code—7600—which silently tells ATC “radio failure.”

They Follow Pre-Filed Flight Path

With no radio contact, pilots stick strictly to the planned route, altitude, and speed to stay predictable.

They Look for Light Signals From the Tower

If approaching an airport, pilots watch the control tower for colored light signals guiding landing clearance.

They Use Standard Lost-Comm Procedures

Pilots climb, descend, or maintain altitude based on exact lost-communication rules until contact is restored.

They Land Safely Even Without Contact

If radios stay dead, pilots follow precise rules to land safely at the destination or alternate airport.

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