JO 7110.65 — Air Traffic Control
JO 7110.65 5-4-3
METHODS
Transfer the radar identification of an aircraft by at least one of the following methods: Physically point to the target on the receiving controller's display.
Use landline voice communications.
Use automation capabilities. NOTE-
Automated handoff capabilities are only available when FDP is operational.
TERMINAL. Use the “Modify” or “Quick Look” functions for data transfer between the TRACON and tower cab only if specific procedures are established in a facility directive. The local controller has the responsibility to determine whether or not conditions are adequate for the use of STARS data on the TDW. REFERENCE-
FAA Order JO 7210.3, Para 12-6-4, Use of Stars Quick Look Functions.
When making a handoff, point out, or issuing traffic restrictions, relay information to the receiving controller in the following order: The position of the target relative to a fix, map symbol, or radar target known and displayed by both the receiving and transferring controller. Mileage from the reference point may be omitted when relaying the position of a target if a full data block associated with the target has been forced on the receiving controller's radar display. EXAMPLE-
“Point out, Southwest of Richmond VOR . . ..”
The aircraft identification, as follows: The aircraft call sign, or
The discrete beacon code of the aircraft during interfacility point outs only, if both the receiving and the transferring controllers agree. NOTE-
Acceptance of a point out using the discrete beacon code as the aircraft's identification constitutes agreement.
EN ROUTE. The Computer Identification Number (CID) during intrafacility point outs. EXAMPLE-
“Point Out, Southwest of Richmond VOR, C-I-D 123…”
The assigned altitude, appropriate restrictions, and information that the aircraft is climbing or descending, if applicable, except when inter/intrafacility directives ensure that the altitude information will be known by the receiving controller. NOTE-
When physically pointing to the target, you do not have to state the aircraft position.
Advise the receiving controller of pertinent information not contained in the data block or available flight data unless covered in an LOA or facility directive. Pertinent information may include: Assigned heading.
Speed/altitude restrictions.
Observed track or deviation from the last route clearance.
Any other pertinent information. PHRASEOLOGY-
HANDOFF/POINT-OUT/TRAFFIC (aircraft position), (aircraft ID or discrete beacon code), (altitude, restrictions, and other pertinent information, if applicable).
When receiving a handoff, point out, or traffic restrictions, respond to the transferring controller as follows: PHRASEOLOGY-
(Aircraft ID) (restrictions, if applicable) RADAR CONTACT,
or
(aircraft ID or discrete beacon code) (restrictions, if applicable) POINT OUT APPROVED,
or
TRAFFIC OBSERVED,
or
UNABLE (appropriate information, as required).
If any doubt as to target identification exists after attempting confirmation in accordance with this section, apply the provisions of paragraph 5-3-5 , Questionable Identification. REFERENCE-
FAA Order JO 7110.65, Para 5-2-15 , Validation of Mode C Altitude Readout.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 20, 2026.