Practice approach/area

Practice Area Position Report

A good practice area position report ensures that other pilots operating in the same vicinity can accurately visualize your location and movements.

Best Practices for Position Reporting:

• Before entering a practice area, inquire whether it is already occupied.
• Once inside, define the boundaries of your operational space using easily recognizable landmarks.
• Specify your altitude or altitude block.
• Only make subsequent reports when necessary, such as:
  • When another aircraft is approaching or moving into an adjacent area.
  • When you are changing location or altitude.

Avoid unnecessary radio calls to prevent frequency congestion and reduce distractions for pilots receiving instructions.

Practice Approach VFR

The VFR Practice Approach allows pilots to practice different approach procedures under visual flight conditions.

• If the practice approach is conducted within Class D airspace (CTR), the tower is responsible for handling the request.
• If the approach begins within Class C or D, the approach or center controller is responsible.

Important Considerations:

• The practice approach must remain under VFR conditions.
• The pilot must comply with VMC minima.
• All instructions from ATC are recommendations only.

Standard ATC Phraseology:

Vectoring Considerations

• If traffic volume is high, vector the aircraft closer to final (5-7 NM).
• If time allows, ask the pilot how many miles of final approach they prefer.

Alternative: Instead of using heading recommendations, pilots may also be guided using traffic circuit sections leading to final approach.

Phraseology Example