Definition
On IFR en route and approach charts, an open (unfilled) triangle symbol used to identify a non-compulsory reporting point — an intersection or fix where the pilot is not required to make a position report to ATC unless specifically requested.
Plain English
A hollow triangle on an instrument chart that marks a named point in the sky. You don't have to call ATC when you cross it unless they ask you to.
Context Anchor
Seen on FAA instrument charts when identifying intersections, fixes, and reporting points along routes or procedures.
Why Pilots Care
Tells the pilot whether an automatic position report is required at that fix or only on request, directly affecting cockpit workload and ATC communication.
Intuition Check
Do not read “open” as meaning unrestricted or optional to use. Here, “open” describes the hollow chart symbol, and the symbol tells you the point is not normally a required reporting point.
Example Sentence 1
The intersection ahead is marked with an open triangle, so I won't call it in unless ATC asks for a position report.
Example Sentence 2
We crossed the open triangle fix and remained on the airway without a required report.