How should an aircraft communicate when arriving at a runway?

When an aircraft is arriving at a runway, it is essential for the pilot to communicate through Air Traffic Control (ATC) instructions. ATC plays a crucial role in managing air traffic and ensuring that aircraft safely enter and exit runways. The communication with ATC provides pilots with necessary information regarding the runway conditions, traffic on the ground, and landing clearance, ensuring that all operations are coordinated and safe.

Using ATC instructions allows the pilot to receive real-time updates and respond accordingly, which helps prevent accidents and improve overall flight safety. This communication also ensures compliance with regulations and established procedures for runway traffic management.

In contrast, emergency signals are only used in specific urgent circumstances, verbal communication alone is not sufficient in the context of air traffic coordination, and prior clearance is part of the ATC communication process rather than a standalone method. Overall, the integration of ATC instructions into runway arrival protocols is critical for the safety and efficiency of air traffic management.