PLT171: ATC Reporting
What code PLT171 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study ATC Reporting before your checkride.
Recall ATC - reporting
What this means for your checkride
Position and situation reporting keeps ATC's picture accurate. In radar contact many reports are waived, but non-radar and certain events still require them: reaching an assigned altitude, unable to climb or descend as cleared, a missed approach, loss of navigation, and safety-of-flight information.
Timely reports keep separation and help ATC help you, so the FAA tests which reports are required with and without radar.
Pilots assume radar contact waives all reports. Some are always required, such as leaving an assigned altitude, a missed approach, or an equipment failure affecting the flight.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.