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1.3 Radar Identification

1.3.1 General

Radar identification is the process of establishing that a particular radar return corresponds to a specific aircraft.

The Approach Controller shall positively identify an aircraft prior to the provision of radar control.

Radar control shall not be applied until identification has been established.

1.3.2 Requirement for Identification

The Approach Controller shall ensure that:

  • The correct aircraft has been identified
  • Identification is continuous and reliable
  • All control instructions are based on positively identified targets

The Approach Controller shall not issue radar vectors or apply radar separation to unidentified aircraft.

1.3.3 Methods of Identification

Identification may be established by one or more of the following methods:

(a) Assignment of Discrete SSR Code

  • Assign a discrete transponder code
  • Observe the corresponding radar response

(b) Use of IDENT Feature

  • Instruct the aircraft to squawk IDENT
  • Observe the IDENT indication on radar

Example:

GFA123, squawk IDENT.

(c) Position Correlation

  • Correlate the aircraft’s reported position with a radar return
  • Ensure consistency with track and movement

(d) Observed Manoeuvre

  • Instruct a specific manoeuvre (e.g. turn)
  • Observe the corresponding radar response

Example:

GFA123, turn left heading 180.

1.3.4 Validation of Identification

The Approach Controller shall confirm that:

  • The radar return corresponds to the correct aircraft
  • There is no ambiguity with other targets
  • The aircraft’s track and behaviour are consistent

Identification shall be maintained continuously.

1.3.5 Loss of Identification

If radar identification is lost, the Approach Controller shall:

  • Inform the aircraft immediately
  • Re-establish identification as soon as possible
  • Apply alternative separation methods if required

The Approach Controller shall not apply radar separation to aircraft that are not positively identified.

1.3.6 Transfer of Identification

Radar identification may be transferred between controllers in accordance with coordination procedures.

The receiving controller shall ensure that identification is valid before applying control.

1.3.7 Key Principle

Radar identification is fundamental to radar control.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Positively identify all aircraft
  • Maintain continuous identification
  • Verify before applying control

No radar control shall be based on assumed identification.