When should the transfer of communication occur during an ATC handoff?

The transfer of communication during an ATC handoff should occur after the handoff has been accepted by the pilot. This procedure ensures that the receiving controller has acknowledged the aircraft's transfer to their frequency and is ready to provide service. This method helps establish clear communication, as it minimizes the risk of confusion and ensures that the aircraft is under the control of the appropriate air traffic controller before the frequency change is finalized.

If communication were to occur before the pilot acknowledges the new frequency, it could lead to misunderstandings or missed transmissions. Similarly, transferring communication immediately as the aircraft enters new airspace would not guarantee that the pilot is prepared to communicate or has the new frequency dialed in. Also, waiting until the aircraft reaches cruising altitude does not align with standard operating procedures for air traffic management, which emphasizes timely and efficient communication transitions throughout all phases of flight.