Definition
A flight crew procedure in which the transfer of aircraft control between pilots is confirmed verbally so that, at every moment, both pilots know exactly who is flying the aircraft. The standard exchange uses three statements: the transferring pilot says 'You have the flight controls,' the receiving pilot replies 'I have the flight controls,' and the transferring pilot confirms 'You have the flight controls.' Control is not considered transferred until this exchange is complete.
Plain English
It means that whenever control of the aircraft is being passed from one pilot to the other, both pilots say it out loud and confirm it, so there is never any doubt about who is actually flying.
Context Anchor
Used in flight instruction when the instructor and learner are practicing maneuvers, correcting mistakes, or transferring control of the aircraft.
Derivation
Positive' here means 'definite, not in doubt' — the same sense used in 'positive identification.' The phrase emphasises that control of the aircraft must be definitely established with one specific pilot at all times, never assumed or unclear.
Why Pilots Care
It prevents confusion during dual instruction and reduces the risk of unintended aircraft states.
Intuition Check
Do not read positive here as meaning good or cheerful. In this phrase, positive means definite, assured, and not in doubt.
Example Sentence 1
Before the instructor demonstrated the maneuver, she said 'I have the flight controls,' the student replied 'You have the flight controls,' and she confirmed back — completing the positive aircraft control exchange.
Example Sentence 2
Before allowing the learner to practice, ensure positive aircraft control is established to avoid any loss of situational awareness.