Definition
The two pieces of information a pilot states first on initial contact with an air traffic control facility: the aircraft's full call sign (registration number or company flight identifier) and the make or model designation of the aircraft. Together they tell the controller who is calling and what kind of aircraft they are working with.
Plain English
When you first call ATC, you say who you are (your tail number or flight number) and what you're flying (the type of aircraft). That combination is your aircraft identification and type.
Context Anchor
You may provide aircraft identification and type when making an instrument flight request, giving a pilot report, checking in with air traffic control, or supplying information after an abnormal situation.
Derivation
Identification comes from a Latin idea meaning “to make the same” or “to establish who or what something is.” Type comes from a Greek word meaning a mark, form, or kind. Together, the phrase points to naming the exact aircraft and stating what kind of aircraft it is.
Why Pilots Care
Accurate identification lets ATC track the correct aircraft, issue instructions to the right pilot, and maintain separation.
Intuition Check
Do not read type as a loose description like “small airplane” or “jet.” In this context, type means the specific kind of aircraft, such as its make and model or standard aircraft type code.
Example Sentence 1
On initial call-up to Centennial Ground, she gave her aircraft identification and type: "Centennial Ground, Skyhawk November One Two Three Alpha Bravo."
Example Sentence 2
Flight plans must include the correct aircraft identification and type so ATC can assign proper routing and services.