Definition
Specific items of information that a pilot is required to communicate to air traffic control (ATC) at certain times or upon the occurrence of certain events. Reports are divided into two categories: those required at all times (such as leaving an assigned altitude, an unforecast weather encounter, or loss of navigation capability), and those required only when not in radar contact (such as reaching a holding fix, a missed approach, or position reports over compulsory reporting points).
Plain English
Pieces of information a pilot must tell ATC, either always or only when ATC can't see them on radar. Some reports are mandatory whenever the situation occurs; others are only needed when radar isn't tracking the flight.
Context Anchor
Seen in weather briefings, radio communications, airport notices, and flight planning material.
Derivation
Report comes from Latin words meaning “to carry back.” That fits the aviation use: a report carries information back from an observer, aircraft, station, or airport to the people who need it.
Why Pilots Care
Timely and accurate reports maintain situational awareness for controllers and other aircraft, directly supporting safe separation and decision-making.
Intuition Check
Do not read “reports” as casual talk or rumor. In aviation, reports are pieces of operational information tied to a time, place, and source.
Example Sentence 1
After leaving 8,000 feet for 6,000 feet, the pilot made the required altitude-change report to ATC.
Example Sentence 2
PIREPs from other aircraft gave the controller real-time turbulence reports for the area.