When operating an aircraft in the vicinity of an airport with an operating control tower, when must a pilot establish communications?

A pilot must establish communications with an airport control tower when approaching an airport with an operational control tower at a distance of 4 nautical miles and up to an altitude of 2,500 feet above ground level (AGL). This requirement ensures that the pilot receives important traffic and safety information, which is crucial for maintaining safe operations in busy airport environments.

Establishing communication within this specified range allows pilots to coordinate their approach and landing procedures with air traffic control, thereby reducing the risk of conflict with other aircraft and enhancing overall situational awareness. The altitude limit of 2,500 feet AGL is typically where controlled airspace operates, and below this altitude, the control tower can manage approaching traffic effectively.