Mhm. In some planes there's VOX capability (so you can speak and it will transmit for you), in others there's a microphone button on the yoke, and in yet others

Mhm. In some planes there's VOX capability (so you can speak and it will transmit for you), in others there's a microphone button on the yoke, and in yet others (like the Boeing 777, which is what I have the most experience with) it's a button on the console in front of you [1]. And assuming you figure out how to use the radio at all, that's still of no help whatsoever unless you happen to know how to tune to 121.5 MHz (the international aircraft emergency frequency) or are still in range of the previous controllers! [1] https://live.staticflickr.com/7443/27038444724_18cc73d82c_b.jpg https://live.staticflickr.com/7443/27038444724_18cc73d82c_b.... In the right of this image, there is an empty pencil holder on the far right pillar (like the A-pillar in your car). Immediately to the left of that is a set of 2 black buttons and a white dial. The microphone button is the left black one. It only has "MIC" written above it. The unmarked single button on the yoke is indeed the autopilot disconnect. EDIT: I should also add that the microphone button doesn't mean you'll necessarily be talking on the radio either. The headset also serves as a PA system and an interphone, and it can use the satphone too. This is all controlled on the radio panel next to your leg.