Single frequency approach

Last updated January 15, 2026

In aviation, a single frequency approach (SFA) is a service for a military single-piloted turbojet aircraft to use a single UHF frequency during their landing approach. Circumstances permitting, pilots will not be required to change their frequency when they switch from ARTCC to terminal facility control when conducting an SFA.

In the U.S., per the FAA, controllers are not allowed to require a frequency change from aircraft conducting an SFA unless:

Pilot has completed landing or low approach
Aircraft is in VFR conditions during daylight hours
Pilot requests a frequency change
Emergency situation exists
Aircraft is cleared for a visual approach
Pilot cancels their IFR flight plan^[1]

If a change of control is necessary, controllers will hand off the frequency to each other, instead of having the pilots change the frequency on their radio.

References

↑ "Section 10. Radar Approaches- Terminal". Federal Aviation Administration. U.S. Department of Transportation. Archived from the original on 6 April 2007. Retrieved 14 January 2026.

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[1] "Section 10. Radar Approaches- Terminal". Federal Aviation Administration. U.S. Department of Transportation. Archived from the original on 6 April 2007. Retrieved 14 January 2026.

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