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This is a follow-up to this question - in particular, to this video posted in MichaelK's answer.

What would be the correct procedure for the pilot to follow in this situation? (That is, after a near miss). Should they report the incident to ATC immediately, even though the incident is over? If there are differences in the procedure depending on jurisdiction, what would it be in the USA and the UK?

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The categorization of nearly missing another plane is different between the UK and US. See: What is the relationship between the terms "airprox" and "near mid-air collision"?

UK

As for the procedure, for the UK (where it's called an AIRPROX) it should be reported over the radio if the controller's workload permits, else later in writing after landing.

An AIRPROX Report should be made by any pilot flying in the United Kingdom Flight Information Region, the Upper Flight Information Region or Shanwick Oceanic Area when in his opinion, the distance between aircraft as well as their relative positions and speed have been such that the safety of the aircraft involved was or may have been compromised.

So if it is in the pilot's opinion that an AIRPROX took place, it should be reported. The message needs to start with, "AIRPROX report." Following the report it will be confirmed in writing within 7 days.

The contents of the message the pilot should transmit are:

  • Aircraft Callsign
  • SSR Code
  • Position of AIRPROX Aircraft heading
  • Flight level, altitude or height
  • Altimeter setting
  • Aircraft attitude (level/climbing/descending/turning) Weather conditions
  • Date and time (UTC) of the AIRPROX Description of other aircraft
  • First sighting distance and details of flight paths of reporting and reported aircraft.

Source: CAP 413

USA

Similar reporting is explained for the US in the FAA AIM 7−6−3 Near Midair Collision Reporting. They can also be reported after the fact in writing.

The reported items are similar to the ones above, extra items include but not limited to:

  1. Degree of evasive action taken, if any (from both aircraft, if possible).
  2. Injuries, if any.
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  • $\begingroup$ Thanks very much! I see from the documents that the US requirement is to report the incident "immediately", but in the UK the controller can ask the pilot to defer the report until after landing. $\endgroup$
    – Tevildo
    Commented Sep 29, 2018 at 19:54
  • $\begingroup$ You're welcome @Tevildo - If you check paragraph d. in the FAA AIM you'll find: 1. By radio or telephone to the nearest FAA ATC facility or FSS. 2. In writing, in lieu of the above, to the nearest Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). $\endgroup$
    – user14897
    Commented Sep 29, 2018 at 20:16

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