Unless otherwise authorized, two-way radio communications with Air Traffic Control are required for landings or takeoffs

• A. at all tower controlled airports regardless of weather conditions
• B. Only when weather is below VFR minimums
• C. Only during daylight hours
• D. Only when runway is longer than 3,000 feet

Answer: (A)

At tower-controlled airports, Air Traffic Control coordinates all arriving and departing traffic, so pilots must establish two-way radio communication with the tower before taking off or landing. This contact is required regardless of weather conditions, time of day, or how long the runway is, because ATC needs to issue clearances and manage traffic safely. Only if ATC explicitly authorizes otherwise would the usual two-way communication not be required. (Non-towered airports operate differently, with pilots using a common advisory frequency to announce intentions.)