Position Report

A position report is a message from a pilot to ATC or FIC providing the aircraft’s current position, time, altitude, and other relevant information. Position reports are mandatory at compulsory reporting points on IFR flights not under radar surveillance.

Standard Position Report Elements

• Aircraft identification
• Position (fix name)
• Time (UTC)
• Altitude or flight level
• IFR flight conditions (estimated or actual)
• Estimated time at next reporting point
• Name of the next following reporting point
• Any pertinent remarks

When Position Reports Are Required

IFR flights not under radar contact must make position reports at compulsory reporting points (solid triangle on the chart). In radar-controlled environments (most of Canada), position reports are usually suspended — ATC has continuous radar identification. When “radar services terminated” or “leaving radar coverage” is advised, resume position reporting.

Related Terms

See also: Compulsory Reporting Point, FISE, IFR.