Definition
A condition reached when the correlation between a particular radar return (or other surveillance data) and a specific aircraft has been established and is maintained by ATC, allowing the controller to provide that aircraft with surveillance-based services.
Plain English
The moment when the controller is sure which blip on the radar screen is your aircraft, and keeps track of it from then on.
Context Anchor
Used in air traffic control, especially when a controller is using a radar or surveillance display to follow and assist an aircraft.
Derivation
From Latin 'idem' meaning 'the same.' To identify is to confirm that a thing is the same as the one being looked for. In ATC, it means matching the right aircraft to the right radar target.
Why Pilots Care
Correct identification prevents miscommunication with controllers and ensures the right aircraft receives clearances and traffic advisories.
Intuition Check
Do not read identification here as a pilot showing a license or saying a name. In this context, it means the controller has matched a screen position to a specific aircraft.
Example Sentence 1
After the pilot reported level at 5,000 feet, the controller said 'radar contact,' confirming identification had been established.
Example Sentence 2
The controller confirmed the radar target matched the filed identification.