Known Position Reports

Definition

A known position report is a standard radio message in which a pilot reports their current location using a recognizable point, such as a visual reference, a navigation fix, or a published reporting point. These reports help air traffic services (ATC or FIS) maintain situational awareness, especially in uncontrolled airspace or when radar coverage is limited.

Purpose

  • Support traffic separation and collision avoidance
  • Keep ATC or Flight Information Services (FIS) updated on aircraft location
  • Aid in sequencing, coordination, and entry into controlled zones
  • Serve as part of standard VFR procedures at busy aerodromes or airspace boundaries

When to Make Position Reports

  • When entering or leaving a control zone (CTR)
  • When crossing or approaching visual reporting points (VRPs)
  • When requested by ATC or FIS
  • During overland navigation in Class G airspace
  • In non-radar environments
  • When operating on common traffic advisory frequencies (CTAF) at non-towered airports

Typical Contents of a Position Report

ElementExample
Callsign“OE-ABC”
Position“Over reporting point Sierra”
Altitude“At 2500 feet”
Intentions“Inbound for landing” or “Transiting the zone northbound”
Time (optional)“At 32” or “In 2 minutes”

Phraseology Examples

  • “Wien Information, OE-XYZ, over point November at 3000 feet, VFR to Krems.”
  • “Graz Tower, D-EFGH, entering CTR at Sierra, 2500 feet, inbound for landing.”
  • “Langen Information, OE-JKL, 5 miles east of Wels, 2800 feet, westbound.”

Optional additions include:

  • Time over fix (e.g., “At 45”)
  • ETA at next fix (e.g., “Estimating Echo in 3 minutes”)

Visual Reporting Points (VRPs)

  • Standard VFR entry and exit points marked on charts
  • Used for CTR entries, traffic pattern integration, and coordination
  • Examples: “Sierra”, “Whiskey”, “Echo”, “Delta”
  • Pilots must report at or near these points as instructed by ATC

Non-Visual Known Positions

In IFR or remote VFR:

Report using VOR radials, DME distance, GPS coordinates, or airspace boundaries

Example: “5 miles east of VOR STU, FL60, estimating GITRI at 15:20”

When Required by Regulation

  • As part of a compulsory reporting point
  • In Class G airspace with active FIS
  • When operating under Flight Plan with mandatory checkpoints

Tips for Pilots

  • ✅ Use clear, standardized phrasing
  • ✅ Reference chart-labeled points when possible
  • ✅ Stay concise: position, altitude, intentions
  • ✅ Practice with LearnATC simulator to build confidence with reporting calls