Definition
A point, whether a named intersection, a navaid, a fix derived from a navaid, or a geographical position expressed in latitude and longitude, which is required for the purposes of route definition, ATC clearances, flight planning, or progress reporting.
Plain English
A specific, identifiable point along a route that controllers and pilots use to describe where you are, where you're going, or where you've been. It can be a navaid, a named fix, an intersection, or just a set of coordinates.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight plans, route descriptions, navigation databases, air traffic clearances, and instrument flying materials.
Derivation
Significant comes from Latin roots meaning “to make known by a sign.” Point comes from a word meaning a small marked spot. Together, the idea is a marked spot that has an agreed meaning for navigation.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots use these locations to track progress, comply with routing, and make required position reports.
Intuition Check
Significant does not mean “important” in a general opinion-based sense here. In FAA use, it means a specific, agreed location used as a reference point for routing, navigation, or air traffic control.
Example Sentence 1
The flight plan listed several significant points along the route, including two VORs and a named intersection.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot reported passing the next significant point to center.