Frequency changes and handoffs
How handoffs work, what to read back, and the right way to check onto a new frequency.
The handoff
A controller passes you to the next sector: "Cessna One Two Three Four Five, contact Norcal Approach one two zero point niner." Read back the frequency and your call sign: "Norcal Approach one two zero point niner, Cessna One Two Three Four Five."
Checking on
On the new frequency, give who you are and your altitude (and that you're level or climbing/descending): "Norcal Approach, Cessna One Two Three Four Five, level six thousand five hundred." Keep it short.
Frequency change approved
At a non-towered destination or leaving flight following, you may hear "frequency change approved" — acknowledge and switch to CTAF. You can also request it: "Cessna One Two Three Four Five, request frequency change."
Practice this with instant grading — free, no mic required.
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