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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Standard Phraseology for Reporting Aircraft Position

Introduction

This section aims to educate CASA PPL candidates on the standard phraseology used for reporting the position of an aircraft in the circuit, as well as the required calls for local flights. Understanding and utilizing correct radiotelephony procedures are essential for maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safety in aviation operations, especially in both controlled and non-controlled environments.

Reporting Position in the Circuit

When flying in the circuit, specific standard phraseologies must be used to accurately report aircraft positions. These communications help nearby traffic and air traffic control (ATC) understand the aircraft’s location, intents, and ensure safe operation within the aerodrome circuit.

Key Positions in the Circuit

  1. Upwind: This refers to the takeoff leg directly after departure and before entering the crosswind leg.
  2. Crosswind: The leg flown perpendicular to the runway after takeoff or go-around.
  3. Downwind: The leg parallel to the runway, flying in the opposite direction of landing.
  4. Base Leg: The turn to base is flown at a right angle to the runway, following the downwind leg.
  5. Final Approach: The final path to the runway, flown for landing.

Standard Position Reports

The following standard phraseologies should be used when reporting position in the circuit:

  • Crosswind: “CALLSIGN, CROSSWIND RUNWAY XX”
  • Downwind: “CALLSIGN, DOWNWIND RUNWAY XX”
  • Base: “CALLSIGN, BASE RUNWAY XX”
  • Final: “CALLSIGN, FINAL RUNWAY XX”

Here, CALLSIGN is the unique identification of the aircraft, and XX is the runway number.

Required Calls for Local Flights

In addition to circuit reports, pilots must be knowledgeable about the phraseologies used for local flights, particularly in the vicinity of non-controlled aerodromes. While specific details weren’t found in the initial research, pilots are expected to follow general communication protocols as guided by resources like the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) and the Manual of Standards (MOS).

Useful Communication Tips

  • Always state your intentions clearly before joining the circuit, such as “JOINING DOWNWIND RUNWAY XX.”
  • Provide precise position and altitude information when entering and leaving a circuit.
  • Acknowledge ATC instructions by reading them back accurately to ensure mutual understanding and adherence to directives.

Conclusion

The correct use of standard phraseology when reporting aircraft position in the circuit is crucial for safe and efficient flight operations. Pilots should refer to the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) GEN 3.4 for detailed radio communication procedures and adhere to the best practices outlined by CASA and international bodies such as ICAO. Continuous focus on unambiguous communication will reduce the risk of misunderstandings and incidents within the circuit and during local flights.

Sources