Free Call Technique

When you contact a controller for a service you will be asked to “pass message”, this is the controller asking for your information,

To help standardize this we use the free call method.

  • Who you are – callsign and aircraft type.
  • What you are doing – point of departure and destination, route or area of operation and/or
    intentions
  • Where you are – position, altitude/level and flight rules. Use a reference point such as a major
    town or aerodrome.
  • What you want – provide more detail on your request (such as requested routing) if required.

Here is an example

Explanation   Exchange
Use the free call method above for your initial call.
“Leeds Radar, Aero38, Request basic service and transit”
The control will issue a squawk code and request your information using a “pass message”
“Aero38, squawk 1234, pass message.”
Use the above to pass the relevant information to the controller.
“Aero38, Piper Arrow 3, from Sherburn to Blackpool. 2 Mles south of M1/A1 junction, Routing M1/A1 Junction Eccup Reservoir, altitude 1700ft QNH 1010 VFR, request to transit Eccup reservoir – Overhead – Keithley.”
They maybe a delay first whilst the controller coordinates so do not expect the clearance straight away every time, they may ask you to remain outside controlled airspace whilst they review your information.
“Aero 38, Cleared to transit Leeds controlled airspace routing Eccup reservoir – Runway 32 threshold – Keithley VFR not above altitude 2000ft QNH 1010, report airfield in sight.”
Not to be used for real world aviation.