What must a pilot do if both the transmitter and receiver are inoperative?

When both the transmitter and receiver are inoperative, the pilot must navigate using visual references and communicate with other aircraft through light signals, which is a procedure emphasized in visual flight rules (VFR) operations. Joining the traffic pattern at an airport and monitoring for light signals allows the pilot to both safely enter the airspace and communicate their intentions to air traffic control or other pilots visually, especially when radio communication is not an option.

This procedure is particularly important because it ensures that the pilot can respond appropriately to air traffic control using standard visual signals like the use of light signals from the ground. By keeping visual awareness of other aircraft and using established traffic patterns, the pilot can work to safely resolve the situation while maintaining situational awareness.

In situations involving inoperative communication equipment, proceeding directly to the nearest airport without establishing visual contact with the traffic pattern and using light signals may lead to increased risk due to unfamiliar airport surroundings or conflict with other traffic. Notifying other pilots of the situation is less effective in this context since the pilot is unable to transmit messages, making light signals the more suitable method of communication. Trying to repair equipment in-flight is impractical and unsafe and may divert essential attention from flying the aircraft.