In the initial contact, which of the following is a correct example of the required information?

• A. Aircraft color and tail number
• B. The flight plan number and destination
• C. Aircraft call sign, position/location, altitude, and the purpose of the call or request
• D. Weather observations for the area

Answer: (C)

In the initial contact, you must convey identification, location, altitude, and the purpose of the call or request. This combination lets ATC know who you are, where you are, how high you are, and why you are contacting them, so they can promptly and safely coordinate with you.

The aircraft’s call sign identifies you uniquely. Your position/location gives ATC your approximate place on the airspace map, which helps them place you in relation to fixes, airways, or other traffic. Your altitude indicates your vertical position for traffic separation and sequencing. The purpose tells ATC what you need—a clearance, weather brief, radar service, or another instruction—so they can provide the correct assistance.

Color and tail number aren’t part of the standard initial contact because they don’t help ATC determine your immediate identity, location, altitude, or requested service. A flight plan number and destination aren’t typically used in the first contact, and weather observations for the area are handled via dedicated weather broadcasts and reports, not the initial contact information.

Example: this is N12345, 10 miles north of XYZ VOR, at 5,300 feet, requesting radar service.