Which instruction best describes how to handle a loss of comms when vectored for a GCA approach?

Which instruction best describes how to handle a loss of comms when vectored for a GCA approach?

• A. Fly the last assigned heading
• B. Fly any published instrument approach at the airfield
• C. Return to the filed route
• D. Hold and await instructions

Answer: (B)

When communications are lost while you’re being vectored for a GCA approach, you should proceed with a published instrument approach at the airfield and fly it to a landing. The reason this is the best option is that, in a lost-comm scenario, you follow the clearance you can reasonably assume ATC has anticipated—that is, complete an instrument approach using a published path to the field so you have a clear, protected sequence to landing without needing further instructions. Continuing a last assigned heading won’t bring you to the runway or a safe approach path. Returning to the filed route could pull you away from the intended approach and create conflicts. Holding and awaiting instructions delays landing and isn’t practical when you’re unable to communicate. Using a published instrument approach provides a defined, safe route to land despite the lack of radio contact.

When communications are lost while you’re being vectored for a GCA approach, you should proceed with a published instrument approach at the airfield and fly it to a landing. The reason this is the best option is that, in a lost-comm scenario, you follow the clearance you can reasonably assume ATC has anticipated—that is, complete an instrument approach using a published path to the field so you have a clear, protected sequence to landing without needing further instructions.

Continuing a last assigned heading won’t bring you to the runway or a safe approach path. Returning to the filed route could pull you away from the intended approach and create conflicts. Holding and awaiting instructions delays landing and isn’t practical when you’re unable to communicate. Using a published instrument approach provides a defined, safe route to land despite the lack of radio contact.