Definition
A standard radio phrase used to ask the receiving station to report the readability and clarity of the transmitting station's signal. The expected reply is a readability scale response (loud and clear, readable but with interference, etc.) describing how well the transmission is being received.
Plain English
It means: 'Tell me how well you can hear my radio signal.' It is a check on the quality of the radio link between two stations.
Context Anchor
Used during aviation radio communication, especially when checking whether a radio is working properly or whether a transmission is being received clearly.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures both parties confirm that instructions and information are being received without distortion before continuing critical exchanges.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as a general question about someone’s hearing. In aviation radio use, it asks about the quality of the radio signal and whether the message is understandable.
Example Sentence 1
Center, Cessna Three Four Romeo, radio check, how do you hear me?
Example Sentence 2
The tower responded to the pilot's 'How do you hear me?' with 'Five by five.'