FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)Instrument RegulationsEasy
A pilot receives an IFR clearance from a nontowered airport with a specified void time of 1500Z. The pilot is unable to depart by 1500Z. According to standard ATC procedures, what should the pilot do?
- ADepart anyway since the clearance remains valid for 30 minutes after the void time
- BFile a new IFR flight plan and wait 24 hours before requesting another clearance
- CContact ATC as soon as possible, and no later than 30 minutes after the void time, to advise of intentions
- DWait for the tower to issue a new clearance automatically after the void time expires
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Contact ATC as soon as possible, and no later than 30 minutes after the void time, to advise of intentions
If a pilot cannot depart by the assigned void time, the clearance is no longer valid and the aircraft may not depart. The pilot must contact ATC as soon as possible, and no later than 30 minutes after the void time, to advise of intentions; otherwise search and rescue procedures may be initiated.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The clearance becomes invalid at the void time; departing after it is not authorized.
- B. A full 24-hour wait and new flight plan filing is not required.
- D. ATC does not automatically reissue clearances after a void time passes.
Clearance Void Time Procedures
When ATC issues an IFR clearance with a void time, the pilot must depart by that time or the clearance becomes invalid, requiring prompt notification to ATC.
- Clearance is void if aircraft does not depart by the specified time.
- Pilot must not depart after the void time without a new clearance.
- Pilot must contact ATC within 30 minutes of the void time to report intentions.
- Failure to contact ATC may trigger search and rescue action.
Memory trick: 'Void by the clock, call within 30 or the block.'