If I only have one radio, and I'm using VFR Flight Following, what do I tell ATC when I want to pick up ATIS for the landing airport before I'm told to contact the tower?
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2$\begingroup$ Not a true answer per se, but a lot of radios allow you to monitor the standby frequency. Check with your radio manual to see if this mode of operation is supported. $\endgroup$– TyzoidCommented Sep 1, 2021 at 17:44
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$\begingroup$ Isn't this part of why you're required to have two radios? $\endgroup$– VikkiCommented Sep 2, 2021 at 3:19
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1$\begingroup$ @Vikki I'm not aware of any requirement that you have two radios. Many planes only have a single radio. Can you cite a source? $\endgroup$– abelenkyCommented Sep 2, 2021 at 19:39
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$\begingroup$ You just ask. "[Who you're calling], request a quick frequency change to get ATIS." Works every time. $\endgroup$– acpilotCommented Sep 2, 2021 at 21:48
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Just tell them what you said in your question.
"Approach, N23456 I will be off frequency for a couple of minutes to pick up the ATIS for ABC Airport."
That should work just fine. If the controller has an issue with that he/she will let you know and respond accordingly depending on existing circumstances.
Remember to report back on frequency.
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21$\begingroup$ As a controller, I appreciate the pilot phrasing it as a request, Otherwise I agree. The AIM doesn't specify phraseology so just use plain English. $\endgroup$ Commented Sep 1, 2021 at 3:03
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6$\begingroup$ @randomhead- I do understand and appreciate your comment. Personally, as a former controller I would take the suggested phraseology in my answer as an implied request. $\endgroup$– user22445Commented Sep 1, 2021 at 3:14
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9$\begingroup$ I'd go with a shorter version: "Approach, N23456 request frequency change for ATIS", (wait for "request approved"). Then when you come back, "N23456 now has Information Tango" $\endgroup$– abelenkyCommented Sep 1, 2021 at 20:40