Adapting Flight Plans in Uncertain Times

Uncertainty has been a feature of the aviation industry more than ever over the past couple of years. The COVID pandemic caused constant disruption to commercial and private aviation. Changing flight and entry restrictions have made any travel plans subject to change until the last minute. As the pandemic recedes, we are seeing new challenges in Europe with unprecedented airspace restrictions. All this reminds us of the importance of good flight planning and that any plan may need to be changed.

A flight plan is essential for every flight. This must be completed and submitted to ATC in advance of any flight. It also contains vital information for pilots to consider and be aware of.

Flight plan content is mandated by ICAO regulations. This includes:

• Aircraft details, registration, and call sign
• Flight rules and the type of flight, including cautions such as wake turbulence category
• Equipment onboard the aircraft (including navigation capabilities)
• Departure airport
• Planned departure time for the flight
• Planned route details (including planned ATS routes or waypoints)
• Planned speed and altitudes (including changes along the route)
• Destination and planned alternative airports
• Estimated total flight time
• Fuel endurance information
• Total passengers onboard