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Definition of CTAF

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 3 of 15 on Operations / Radio Communications. ACS element UA.V.A.K2 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhat is a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF)?

  1. AA frequency reserved for air traffic control clearances at airports with an operating control tower
  2. BA frequency for airport advisory practices at an airport without an operating control tower
  3. CA frequency on which ATIS weather recordings are broadcast in a looped format every hour
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. A frequency for airport advisory practices at an airport without an operating control tower

  • A — incorrect A CTAF serves airports without an operating control tower; it is not a clearance-delivery frequency for towered fields.
  • B — correct The study guide defines a CTAF as a frequency designated for the purpose of carrying out airport advisory practices while operating to or from an airport without an operating control tower.
  • C — incorrect That describes the Automated Terminal Information Service (ATIS), a separate recorded broadcast of weather and non-control information.

BACKGROUND

The key to communications at an airport without an operating control tower is selection of the correct common frequency. The acronym CTAF stands for Common Traffic Advisory Frequency. A CTAF is a frequency designated for carrying out airport advisory practices while operating to or from an airport without an operating control tower. It may be a UNICOM, MULTICOM, flight service station (FSS), or tower frequency and is identified in the appropriate aeronautical publications. A remote pilot can monitor the CTAF to hear manned aircraft announce their positions and intentions.

STUDY TIP

Learn the definition word for word: 'airport advisory practices' and 'without an operating control tower' are the two phrases that distinguish CTAF from ATIS or tower frequencies.

KEY POINTS

  • CTAF stands for Common Traffic Advisory Frequency.
  • It is used for airport advisory practices at airports without an operating control tower.
  • The CTAF is identified in aeronautical publications such as sectional charts.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch7 "Understanding Communication on a Common Frequency"
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MORE ON OPERATIONS / RADIO COMMUNICATIONS

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.