An aircraft must be informed of its position when identified by which method?

When an aircraft is identified using beacon methods, it is essential to inform the aircraft of its position. This is because beacon methods involve the aircraft's transponder, which provides radar controllers with precise information about the aircraft's location. These methods include responses from the aircraft's transponder to ground radar signals, allowing for accurate tracking and identification.

This method relies on radar returns that are processed and displayed, enabling air traffic controllers to determine the aircraft’s position and transmit that information back to the pilot. Providing accurate position information to the pilot helps ensure situational awareness and supports safe navigation and coordination in the airspace system. In this context, informing the aircraft of its position is critical for safe separation and efficient traffic management.

The other methods mentioned might be useful in their own contexts but do not inherently require a position report when identifying an aircraft. For instance, visual confirmation may depend on the controller’s visual sighting rather than a definitive position report. Quoted flight plans give context to the flight’s intended route but do not specify current position data. A communications check confirms the integrity of communication but does not inherently provide positional data to the pilot.