Which of the following is NOT a listed mandatory ATC report?

• A. VFR on top altitude change
• B. Radar handoff
• C. Compulsory reporting points
• D. 500 ft/min climb/descent unable

Answer: (B)

In this topic, ATC relies on pilot reports to keep situational awareness and separation. Some items are explicit pilot reporting requirements, while others are not. Radar handoff is not a pilot report you must file; it’s an ATC process where control is transferred from one radar sector to another. The other scenarios described are indeed the kinds of events pilots are required to report: when you’re VFR on top and change altitude, you report that altitude change to ATC; when you fly a route with compulsory reporting points, you must report your position at those points; and if you’re unable to climb or descend at the assigned rate (for example, 500 ft/min), you report that you cannot meet the clearance so ATC can adjust. Therefore, radar handoff is not a listed mandatory pilot report.