A lot of microlight pilots do not use the radio, or only use it to a bare minimum.

There are many issues where pilots will travel round an ATZ (Air Traffic Zone) rather than go through it, because it means talking to Air Traffic Control. This of course can add on unnecessary distance to a journey. Pilots should be comfortable with operating a radio, as it can possibly save your life (or others) in an emergency situation.

All Pilots use the same frequencies and talk to the same controllers, and talk the same “language”. I have tried to document at least the basic overview for your information.

All Air Traffic Controllers (ATC), Flight Information Service Officer (FISO) and Air/Ground Controllers are there to assist Pilots to make the skies safer.