FAA Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA)Navigation and AirspaceMedium
A pilot files a VFR flight plan for a cross-country trip but experiences a minor delay and forgets to close it after landing. Per FAA guidance, approximately how long after the proposed arrival time will search and rescue procedures typically begin?
- A1 hour
- B24 hours
- C6 hours
- D15 minutes
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 1 hour
If a VFR flight plan is not closed and the pilot does not contact Flight Service, search and rescue (ALNOT) procedures are typically initiated approximately 1 hour after the proposed arrival time, underscoring the importance of closing flight plans promptly.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 24 hours is far too long for effective search and rescue response.
- C. 6 hours would delay search efforts dangerously long.
- D. 15 minutes is too short given normal arrival delays and communication windows.
VFR Flight Plan Closure
A VFR flight plan must be closed with Flight Service or ATC upon landing; failure to do so results in search and rescue efforts beginning about 1 hour after the estimated arrival time.
- Always close flight plan promptly after landing
- Failure triggers an ALNOT (alert notice) for search and rescue
- Flight plans are not automatically closed upon landing
Memory trick: 'File it, Fly it, Close it — or Search begins in an hour.'