The first time I asked for flight following, my mouth went dry. I had the call scripted on my kneeboard and still managed to stumble through it. Controllers handle that call hundreds of times a day, though, and once you learn how to request flight following, it becomes one of the easiest safety upgrades available to a VFR pilot.
What Flight Following Actually Is
Flight following is the common name for VFR radar traffic advisories. Air traffic control watches your transponder return on radar and calls out other traffic near you. It is a service provided when the controller’s workload permits, not a requirement, and you can ask for it on almost any cross-country flight.
It does not make you an IFR flight. You stay responsible for seeing and avoiding other aircraft, staying clear of clouds, and flying the airplane. Think of it as a second set of eyes that is looking at a different screen than you are.
Why It Is Worth Asking
A controller can see traffic long before you can, especially in haze. Your airplane needs a working transponder, since that is how you are tracked. You also get a built-in safety net. If something goes wrong, someone already knows your position, altitude and general route. And when you cross busy airspace, the controller can coordinate your handoffs so you are not guessing who to call next.
Before You Key the Mic
Get your information organized first. You want your full call sign, aircraft type, current position, altitude, destination, and a clear idea of which frequency to try. Sectional charts list approach and center frequencies, and most flight planning apps will show them too. If you are talking to a nearby tower or approach facility, you can simply ask them what frequency covers your route.
Listen before you transmit. A busy frequency has gaps, and breaking into a controller’s long instruction is the fastest way to get a curt reply. Wait for a pause and then make your call.
The Basic Call
The structure is simple. Start with who you are calling, then who you are, where you are, and what you want. A typical first call sounds like this: facility name, your call sign, and “with a request.” The controller will usually reply with your call sign and “go ahead.” Then you give the details: aircraft type, position, altitude, destination, and that you would like VFR flight following.
The controller will typically respond with a discrete transponder code and ask you to squawk it. Read the code back, enter it, and wait for “radar contact.” If the controller says to remain outside the airspace or that they are unable, do not take it personally. It usually just means they are busy, and you can try the next facility down the route.
If you want more practice with phrasing in general, our list of 40 must-know ATC radio phrases for VFR pilots is a good warm-up before your first request.
What To Expect Once You Are Talking
Expect traffic calls described by clock position, distance and altitude. Answer with “looking for traffic” if you do not see it, or “traffic in sight” once you do. Both are useful to the controller.
You will also get handoffs as you move between sectors. The controller will give you a new frequency, and you check in with your call sign and altitude.
Common Mistakes I See
The most common one is waiting until you are already inside busy airspace to ask. Call earlier, when the frequency is quieter and the controller has time to set you up. Another is forgetting that the service ends. When you are close to landing at an uncontrolled field, you will typically be told that radar service is terminated and to squawk the VFR code. If you need a refresher on that next phase, see our guide on radio calls at uncontrolled airports.
Pairing It With Good Habits
Flight following works best alongside solid planning. Set your own limits on weather, fatigue and unfamiliar airspace, as described in our post on personal minimums for VFR pilots. Know your emergency procedures too, including the transponder codes you may need in a real emergency, which we covered in the must-know emergency squawk codes article.
Bottom Line
Learning how to request flight following takes one nervous call and a little preparation. Know your call sign, position, altitude and destination, wait for a gap, and keep the exchange short. The service is optional and not guaranteed, but it adds traffic awareness and a safety net for almost no cost. Keep your own navigation running too, since radar coverage can have gaps at low altitude. Try it on your next cross-country, and the call will feel routine by the third flight.
