What happens if an aircraft deviates from its flight plan?

What happens if an aircraft deviates from its flight plan?

• A. The pilot must ignore ATC instructions
• B. The pilot is required to report their position
• C. Air traffic will automatically guide them back
• D. They have to land immediately

Answer: (B)

When an aircraft deviates from its flight plan, it's important for the pilot to maintain communication with air traffic control (ATC). Reporting their position allows ATC to understand the aircraft's current location and intentions. This information is crucial for maintaining safe separation from other flights and effectively managing air traffic in the area. Maintaining situational awareness is key in aviation, and by providing position reports, pilots help ensure that both they and ATC can make informed decisions based on the current flight situation. This practice supports the overall safety and efficiency of air traffic management.

When an aircraft deviates from its flight plan, it's important for the pilot to maintain communication with air traffic control (ATC). Reporting their position allows ATC to understand the aircraft's current location and intentions. This information is crucial for maintaining safe separation from other flights and effectively managing air traffic in the area.

Maintaining situational awareness is key in aviation, and by providing position reports, pilots help ensure that both they and ATC can make informed decisions based on the current flight situation. This practice supports the overall safety and efficiency of air traffic management.