## Date: Nov 10, 2021 Subject: UCAP 1038 Feedback Hi Jack, I just listened to 1038, "Down a GA Rabbit Hole" and wanted to make a couple of comments on the discussion you and the guys had regarding VFR flight Plans and Flight Following. First, Flight Plans...There was some comment that made the assumption that ATC has access to VFR flight plans. In fact, from all I've heard and learned from ATC controllers, they do not. VFR Flight plans are the sole domain of FSS for SAR purposes. ATC does not have any information on if you filed a flight plan or what your route looks like if you're VFR. When using FF, you'll need to tell them your route if you're not going direct so they know what to expect and who they'll be passing you to. Here is one reference I trust, but I've also heard this via many other respected sources. https://pilotworkshop.com/tips/flight_plan_advisories/ I'll add, the discussion talked about "filing" a flight plan but I didn't hear anyone mention "activating" or "opening" a VFR flight plan which is necessary in order to get the benefit of the flight plan. I'm sure it was implied, but there could be some less experienced folks listening that may not appreciate that distinction. Second, a comment on the discussion about if flight following gives you the same SAR benefit as activating a flight plan. While I wouldn't count on it as a primary option since it's on a workload basis, it has been my experience that ATC will not ignore an a/c that disappears for no reason if they were providing FF for them. As an example, I had to move a plane about 30 miles inland once to hanagar it from an approaching storm. I did not file a flight plan but I was under FF the entire short trip. I lost comms with ATC due to a bad PTT switch just before needing to switch freq's to land. About an hour later I got a call from FSS checking to see if I landed safe b/c I didn't close my flight plan. I told them I didn't file a flight plan but I was safe and thanks. It took me a while, but I finally figured out that ATC had reported me missing since I fell off the radar while under FF without any talking to them. I now know if something similar ever happens to give ATC a call and let them know what happened to me. Love the show. Keep up the great work and aviation banter. I look forward to each and every episode. Chad B ...Life is Short. Live Your Dream and Share Your Passion. --Holstee Manifesto