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

Element	Example
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