If an ATC instruction is unsafe to follow, the pilot should

• A. Not comply with the instruction
• B. Proceed as instructed
• C. Seek justification
• D. Return to filed flight plan and continue

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that safety overrides everything. When an ATC instruction would put the aircraft in unsafe circumstances, the pilot in command must not comply and should take steps to restore safety by communicating an inability to comply and requesting a safer alternative or clarification.

In practice, you evaluate the instruction on the spot. If it’s unsafe, you say you’re unable to comply and briefly state the reason, then ask ATC for a different, safe instruction or an alternative route, altitude, or procedure. If the situation is immediate danger, you also follow emergency procedures as needed. This preserves control of the aircraft, keeps clear of conflicts, and keeps ATC informed so they can help resolve the safety issue.

Choosing to proceed as instructed ignores the risk and could lead to loss of separation or collision, so it’s not appropriate. Simply seeking justification for the instruction doesn’t address the unsafe aspect in the moment, whereas stating an inability to comply and requesting a safer alternative directly manages the risk. Returning to a filed flight plan and continuing without addressing the unsafe instruction could reintroduce the hazard or create new conflicts with air traffic control.