Flight Information Services (FIS)

Flight Information Service (FIS) is a non-ATC service provided to aircraft to enhance situational awareness and flight safety. It delivers essential information such as traffic advisories, weather conditions, airspace status, and other data relevant to the conduct of safe and efficient flights. FIS is particularly important in Class E and G airspace, where full ATC separation is not provided, and pilots are responsible for their own navigation and separation under VFR.

• Support safe self-separation in uncontrolled or lightly controlled airspace
• Provide real-time operational data to assist pilots with decision-making
• Serve as a communication link between pilots and the wider air traffic management system
• Offer emergency support and relay distress messages if needed

• FIS is an information service, not a control service
• It does not issue clearances
• It may be provided by a dedicated FIS frequency, a combined controller (e.g., Tower or Approach), or via Information stations at uncontrolled aerodromes

• In Austria: Provided by Wien Information (e.g., 124.4 MHz)
• In Germany: Provided by Langen Information (e.g., 128.95 MHz)
• In uncontrolled airspace: May also be provided by Aerodrome Information Stations
• Frequencies are listed on VFR charts and AIP publications

• “Wien Information, OE-XYZ, VFR from LOLO to LOLS, 3500 ft, request traffic information.”
• “OE-XYZ, traffic 2 NM northbound, opposite direction, 3600 ft, unverified.”
• “Maintain VFR, report leaving frequency.”

• FIS does not provide separation between aircraft
• It may offer traffic information only if available (e.g., via radar or pilot reports)
• In Class G airspace, pilots remain fully responsible for collision avoidance

• ✅ Use FIS proactively in uncontrolled airspace
• ✅ Don’t expect ATC-level service
• ✅ Maintain good lookout and situational awareness
• ✅ Use LearnATC to practice proper FIS communication scenarios