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When the runway was no longer safe: How a Mallorca pilot made a decision

When radio contact is lost mid-flight: key safety practices

When ground communication fails, pilots rely on procedures and backups to find a safe alternative and protect passengers.

Published: June 30, 2026
When the runway was no longer safe: How a Mallorca pilot made a decision

Answer

What happens when a plane loses ground-based radio contact and cannot confirm runway conditions?

In such a situation, pilots follow established procedures: switch transponder codes, honor the last clearance, and head to an alternate airport if needed. If ground infrastructure is down and no runway feedback is available, crews must rely on training and judgment to protect passengers, sometimes diverting earlier than planned.

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