While on a VFR cross country and not in contact with ATC, what frequency would you use in the event of an emergency

• A. 121.5 MHz
• B. 123.45 MHz
• C. 122.0 MHz
• D. 126.0 MHz

Answer: (A)

In an in-flight emergency with no ATC contact, you use the international distress frequency, 121.5 MHz. This channel is dedicated for distress calls and is monitored by many air/ground facilities and search-and-rescue coordination centers, making it the best way to broadcast that you’re in trouble and to request help and location information. It serves as a universal fallback when other communications aren’t available, so rescuers know where to start looking. The other frequencies are not designated for general emergency distress; they’re used for routine communications or are not universally monitored for emergencies. If possible, also squawk the emergency transponder code 7700 to signal an immediate emergency to air traffic control and surrounding aircraft.