How to File VFR Flight Plan: US Pilot Guide

Navigating the United States airspace requires pilots to adhere to specific procedures, and a crucial element for visual flight rules (VFR) operations is the VFR flight plan. The FAA, as the governing body, mandates adherence to regulations that ensure flight safety. Filing a VFR flight plan contributes significantly to search and rescue operations should the need arise. Understanding how to file VFR flight plan is paramount, and tools like ForeFlight streamline this process for many pilots. Moreover, a pilot’s proficiency in flight planning, a skill often honed during training at institutions such as ATP Flight School, directly impacts the safety and efficiency of their flight operations.

How to File a VFR Flight Plan: A US Pilot Guide

A well-prepared VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight plan is a critical tool for enhancing flight safety and ensuring timely search and rescue operations should they become necessary. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to file a VFR flight plan in the United States.

I. Understanding the Purpose and Benefits of a VFR Flight Plan

Before diving into the "how-to," it’s crucial to understand why you should file a VFR flight plan, even though it is not required in many situations.

• Enhanced Search and Rescue: The primary benefit is the automatic initiation of search and rescue procedures if you don’t close your flight plan within a reasonable time after your estimated time of arrival (ETA). This is invaluable in case of an emergency landing or unexpected delay.
• Improved Situational Awareness: The act of creating a flight plan forces you to thoroughly consider your route, weather conditions, fuel requirements, and potential hazards.
• Communication Tool: While not real-time tracking, your flight plan provides a pre-determined path for authorities to follow in the event of communication loss.
• Regulatory Compliance: While not universally required, some specific flights (e.g., crossing certain ADIZ zones) do mandate a filed flight plan. Always check relevant regulations.

II. Gathering Required Information

You need to have all relevant information ready before you begin filing your flight plan. This will expedite the process and ensure accuracy.

1. Aircraft Information:
   • Aircraft Identification (Tail Number)
   • Aircraft Type and Equipment Suffix (e.g., C172/U) – Look this up in your aircraft’s Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) or the FAA’s equipment suffix list.
   • True Airspeed (TAS)
   • Departure Point (Airport Identifier or Latitude/Longitude)
   • Proposed Departure Time (Zulu Time – also called UTC)
   • Estimated Time Enroute (ETE)
   • Fuel On Board (in hours and minutes)
   • Alternate Airport (if applicable)
2. Pilot Information:
   • Pilot’s Name
   • Pilot’s Contact Information (Phone Number)
3. Route of Flight: This is a critical element. Determine your route using charts, navigation software, or flight planning services. Use VORs, intersections, and direct routes. The more accurate your route, the better.
4. Emergency Contact Information: Name and phone number of a contact person.

III. Methods of Filing a VFR Flight Plan

There are several ways to file a VFR flight plan, each with its own advantages.

• Online via 1800wxbrief.com (Leidos Flight Service): This is arguably the most convenient method.
  • Register for a free account.
  • Utilize the flight planning tools to create your route.
  • Submit the flight plan electronically.
  • You can also receive a weather briefing through the website.
• Phone via Flight Service (1-800-WX-BRIEF): You can call a Flight Service specialist and provide all the necessary information verbally. This is useful when you are unable to access online resources. Be prepared to clearly and accurately relay all the details.
• In-Person at a Flight Service Station (FSS): Although less common today due to the prevalence of online and phone options, some airports still have FSS facilities where you can file in person.
• Using Third-Party Flight Planning Apps: Many popular aviation apps (ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, etc.) offer flight planning and filing capabilities. Ensure the app is properly integrated with Flight Service.

IV. Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a VFR Flight Plan Using 1800wxbrief.com

This is a detailed example using the most popular filing method.

1. Log in to 1800wxbrief.com.

2. Select "File/Amend Flight Plan" from the left-hand menu.

3. Complete the Flight Plan Form: The form mirrors the information requirements outlined in Section II. Here’s a breakdown of key fields:

   Field	Description	Example
   Aircraft Identification	Your aircraft’s tail number.	N123AB
   Aircraft Type/Equipment	Refer to your POH or the FAA list for the appropriate suffix.	C172/U
   True Airspeed (TAS)	Your aircraft’s typical TAS at your planned altitude.	120
   Departure Point	The airport identifier (e.g., KXYZ) or latitude/longitude coordinates.	KXYZ
   Proposed Departure Time	In Zulu (UTC) time.	1400Z
   Estimated Time Enroute (ETE)	In hours and minutes (e.g., 01:30 for 1 hour and 30 minutes).	01:30
   Fuel On Board	In hours and minutes (e.g., 03:00 for 3 hours).	03:00
   Alternate Airport	If applicable, the airport identifier. Consider weather and other factors.	KABC
   Route	Enter your planned route using VORs, intersections, or direct routes. Separate waypoints with spaces.	KXYZ V30 ABC J20 DEF KABC
   Remarks	Any pertinent information (e.g., "Student Pilot," "Medical Oxygen On Board").	Student Pilot
   Pilot’s Name	Your full name.	John Doe
   Pilot’s Phone Number	Your phone number for contact purposes.	555-1212
   Emergency Contact Name	The name of your emergency contact person.	Jane Doe
   Emergency Contact Number	The phone number of your emergency contact person.	555-1213

4. Review your flight plan carefully before submitting. Ensure all information is accurate. Errors can lead to delays in search and rescue if needed.

5. Submit the Flight Plan.

6. Obtain a Weather Briefing: After filing, request a weather briefing to ensure you have the latest information. You can do this through 1800wxbrief.com or by calling Flight Service.

V. Activating and Closing Your VFR Flight Plan

• Activating: You do not need to "activate" a VFR flight plan like you do with an IFR flight plan. It is automatically active once filed.
• Closing: It is absolutely essential to close your VFR flight plan upon arrival at your destination. Failure to do so will trigger a search and rescue operation.
  • Methods of Closing:
    • Call Flight Service at 1-800-WX-BRIEF.
    • Use the 1800wxbrief.com website.
    • Use a third-party flight planning app that allows flight plan closure.
    • Contact Flight Service via radio if you have the capability.

VI. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect Aircraft Information: Double-check your aircraft type, equipment suffix, and tail number.
• Inaccurate Route: Ensure your route is feasible and considers airspace restrictions, terrain, and weather.
• Incorrect Times: Use Zulu (UTC) time and verify your estimated time enroute (ETE).
• Forgetting to Close the Flight Plan: This is the most common mistake and can lead to unnecessary search and rescue efforts.
• Failing to Obtain a Weather Briefing: Always get a thorough weather briefing before your flight.
• Using Outdated Charts or Navigation Information: Ensure your charts and navigation data are current.
• Not Checking NOTAMs: Review NOTAMs for any temporary flight restrictions or airport advisories along your route.

Alright, that’s the lowdown on how to file a VFR flight plan! Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any confusion. Now you’re well-equipped to get those flight plans in, making your VFR flights safer and more organized. Fly safe, and enjoy the view!