Reporting Points

Definition

Reporting points are predefined geographic locations that pilots use to report their position to Air Traffic Control (ATC) or Flight Information Services (FIS). These points are essential for situational awareness, traffic sequencing, and ensuring safe integration into controlled or busy uncontrolled airspace, especially around aerodromes.

Reporting points are used in both VFR and IFR operations but are particularly relevant to VFR traffic joining or leaving control zones (CTR) or traffic circuits.

Purpose

Standardize entry and exit paths for VFR aircraft
Assist ATC with traffic management and separation
Provide a reference for navigation and communication
Reduce frequency congestion through predictable position updates
Ensure safe integration into aerodrome traffic circuits

Types of Reporting Points

Type	Description	Usage
Visual Reporting Points (VRPs)	Based on visible ground features (e.g., towns, lakes, landmarks)	Common in VFR, marked on VFR charts
IFR Waypoints/Fixes	Based on navigational aids or coordinates	Used in STARs, SIDs, and enroute procedures
Compulsory	Must report when passing, regardless of ATC request	Marked with a solid triangle on charts
Non-compulsory	Report only when requested by ATC	Marked with an open triangle

Standard VFR VRP Example (Austria)

Point	Location	Associated Aerodrome
Sierra	South of field	Entry to LOAV (Vöslau) CTR
Whiskey	West of field	Exit for VFR departures
November	North of field	Common inbound reporting point
Echo	East of field	Often used for circuit entry

Each airport may define custom VRPs — always check the AIP or VFR chart before flying.

Phraseology Examples

“Linz Tower, D-EMFG, over reporting point Sierra at 2500 feet, inbound for landing.”
“Wien Information, OE-ABC, estimating November in 2 minutes.”
“Graz Approach, over GOLDA at FL80, continuing via STAR.”

Use in Traffic Circuits

Reporting points help organize entry into the downwind leg
Often serve as boundaries for joining overhead or direct into base/final
Pilots may be instructed to hold over a point if traffic requires

Pilot Responsibilities

✅ Know the correct names and locations of VRPs before departure
✅ Monitor position and timing enroute to report accurately
✅ Use clear, standard phraseology
✅ Be aware of airspace boundaries and restrictions near each point

Tips for Pilots

Always have the local VFR chart open when approaching a VRP
Use the LearnATC simulator to practice reporting calls and traffic sequencing
Don’t forget to report altitude and intentions, especially in busy airspace
Stay clear of cloud and maintain visual contact with terrain during VRP navigation