FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)RegulationsMedium
A helicopter pilot files a VFR flight plan for a cross-country flight and lands safely at the destination airport, which has no control tower or FSS on the field. According to standard flight plan procedures, who is responsible for closing the flight plan?
- AThe flight plan automatically closes when the aircraft's radar track ends
- BThe nearest approach control facility closes it once the aircraft descends below radar coverage
- CThe pilot is responsible for closing the flight plan with Flight Service by radio or telephone upon landing
- DThe flight plan remains open until the estimated time of arrival expires, then automatically cancels
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The pilot is responsible for closing the flight plan with Flight Service by radio or telephone upon landing
VFR flight plans do not close automatically. The pilot in command is responsible for closing the flight plan with a Flight Service Station, either by radio before landing (if possible) or by telephone immediately after landing. Failure to do so triggers search and rescue procedures once the estimated arrival time plus a grace period has elapsed.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. VFR flight plans are not tracked by radar in a way that automatically closes them.
- B. Approach control does not manage VFR flight plan closure; that is a Flight Service function.
- D. If not closed, search and rescue efforts are initiated rather than an automatic cancellation.
VFR Flight Plan Closure
The pilot in command is responsible for closing a filed VFR flight plan with Flight Service upon landing to prevent unnecessary search and rescue activity.
- VFR flight plans are voluntary but recommended for safety
- Pilot must close via radio, telephone, or in person
- Uncanceled flight plans can trigger search and rescue after ETA plus 30 minutes
Memory trick: 'You opened it, you close it' — flight plans are the pilot's responsibility start to finish.