Position Reporting
Definition
Position reporting is the act of informing Air Traffic Control (ATC) or Flight Information Services (FIS) of an aircraft’s current location, altitude, and intentions, usually at a predefined reporting point or when requested. It is an essential element of flight under both VFR and IFR, particularly in non-radar environments, uncontrolled airspace, or during oceanic and remote operations.
Purpose
- Maintain situational awareness for controllers and other traffic
- Ensure airspace safety and traffic separation, especially without radar
- Provide tracking data for search and rescue, route progression, and flow control
- Support procedural control in areas without surveillance
When Position Reporting Is Required
- At compulsory reporting points (marked with a solid triangle on charts)
- When instructed by ATC or FIS
- In Class G or E airspace while receiving advisory service
- During VFR operations into or out of a control zone (CTR)
- On non-radar IFR routes (e.g., oceanic, mountainous, or remote regions)
- When entering or exiting controlled airspace
Standard Position Report Format
Example Phraseology
Position Reporting in VFR Flights
Phraseology Examples (VFR)
- “Wien Tower, OE-XYZ, over Whiskey at 2500 feet, inbound for landing.”
- “Overhead field at 1500 feet, joining downwind runway 27.”
- “Departing CTR via Echo at 2000 feet.”
Position Reporting in IFR Flights
Phraseology Examples (IFR)
- “Reporting UNOKO at 1432, flight level 270, estimating XEBIX at 1450.”
- “Contact lost radar, resume position reporting at each fix.”
Tips for Position Reporting
Practice With LearnATC
- Visual reporting points
- Procedural IFR communication
- Emergency position reporting
