What should you do if you are unsure of a message received during aircrew communication?

When you are unsure of a message received during aircrew communication, restating the message is critical for ensuring clarity and understanding. By paraphrasing the message, you give the sender the opportunity to confirm or clarify what was intended. This practice reduces the risk of miscommunication, which is essential in aviation where accurate information transfer is vital for safety and operational effectiveness.

In high-pressure environments, such as those encountered in-flight, assumptions about what was said can lead to errors. Ignoring uncertain messages can also increase risk, as actions taken based on misunderstood communications may result in dangerous situations. Therefore, restating the message helps establish a clear line of communication and enhances overall crew coordination.