Flight Plan
Definition
A document filed with ATC containing intended flight details including route, altitude, fuel endurance, and aircraft information. IFR flight plans are mandatory in controlled airspace. VFR plans are recommended.
Why Flight Plan Matters for Pilots
Regulatory knowledge is heavily tested on FAA and EASA written exams. Understanding Flight Plan helps you stay compliant with aviation rules and avoid certificate actions. Examiners frequently ask about regulations during oral checkrides, so knowing Flight Plan inside and out is essential.
Exam Tip
This concept is commonly tested in regulations-related questions on FAA and EASA exams. Make sure you can explain Flight Plan in your own words for the oral exam. Practice applying this concept to real-world scenarios, not just memorizing the definition.
Related Terms
Instrument Flight Rules(IFR)
Flight rules requiring navigation solely by reference to flight instruments. IFR...
Fuel Planning
The process of calculating required fuel for a flight including taxi, trip, cont...
Air Traffic Control(ATC)
A service provided by ground-based controllers directing aircraft movement in co...
Share this with a fellow pilot
Related Content
Atc Clearance
Aviation glossary definition and exam tips.
Motion Sickness
Aviation glossary definition and exam tips.
Mayday
Aviation glossary definition and exam tips.
ATPL Theory Complete Guide
Master every subject covered in airline pilot exams.
Free Practice Exam
Test your aviation knowledge with real exam questions.
Study Flight Plan with Rotate
Unlock All Study Materials — $7.49/mo
1,800+ practice questions covering Flight Plan and every exam topic. Flashcards, study guides, and progress tracking. 94% first-attempt pass rate.
Test your knowledge
Think you understand Flight Plan? Challenge yourself with practice questions covering regulations and all other exam subjects.
Try Free Practice QuestionsMore Regulations Terms
Visual Flight Rules(VFR)
Flight rules allowing pilots to navigate by visual reference to the ground and o...
Instrument Flight Rules(IFR)
Flight rules requiring navigation solely by reference to flight instruments. IFR...
Airspace Classification
The division of airspace into classes (A through G) with different rules for ent...
Class B Airspace
Controlled airspace surrounding the busiest airports requiring ATC clearance for...