Flight Following

For some flights, filing and flying in the IFR system is the way to go. For others, its appropriate to turn off the radios and revel in being one with the machine, without external distractions. Somewhere between these two extremes exists VFR flight following, a neither-fish-nor-fowl compromise of obtaining ATC services on a workload-permitting basis but without as many rules. For many cross-country flights, its the right solution to the question, "Shouldnt you be talking to somebody?" Like so many other things in aviation, theres a right way and a wrong way to go about it. For example, using the mouth to ask for flight following before engaging the brain to efficiently make the request can guarantee a terse "unable." And once you get your magic squawk code and radar contact is advised, you can relax-a little-satisfied ATC will keep most of the big stuff away from you. But flight following isnt a final solution to your navigation or see-and-avoid procedures.

Key Takeaways:

• VFR flight following provides radar traffic advisories and other assistance (like weather or terrain information) to VFR pilots on a workload-permitting basis, serving as a compromise between IFR and operating without ATC services.
• Pilots receiving flight following retain primary responsibility for "see and avoid," navigation, and adhering to VFR regulations, and must proactively advise ATC of any heading or altitude changes.
• Effective use requires pilots to maintain radio discipline, stay on frequency, and understand that the service is discretionary for ATC and not a substitute for their own vigilance or adherence to VFR rules.

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