“The Plane Went Silent at 30,000 Feet — Until an 11-Year-Old Girl Took the Pilot’s Seat”

had taught her. “First, we need to assess our exact position. Then identify the nearest suitable airport. Then descend and navigate visually to that airport. Then attempt landing.”

“All without radio communication?” the helicopter pilot asked.

“Yes. It’s called NORDO. No-radio procedures. Aircraft do it occasionally when radios fail, but usually they continue reading …