This wasn’t a diversion. It’s just an old sight-seeing track the author flew a few years ago. But he uses it to illustrate an important point: The closest divert field with approaches, fuel, facilities and some level of civilization may be behind you. [Credit: Joseph Burnside]
Key Takeaways:
Pilots should always plan for potential diversions before takeoff by identifying suitable alternate airports along their route and considering their available services.
Once a diversion is necessary, pilots must immediately turn towards the new destination, inform ATC, and strategically manage altitude to maintain options, especially in emergencies.
When choosing a divert field, prioritize airports that can meet specific needs, such as fuel, maintenance, or emergency services, with towered facilities often offering more comprehensive resources.
The reason doesn’t really matter. Hopefully, nothing’s on fire, and the weather, at least where you are, is flyable without much drama.
But you need to land soon—before reaching your destination. You mostly didn’t anticipate this need, except to know ahead of time that it’s the rare flight that’s completed exactly as planned. No flight plan survives the second handoff.
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Jeb Burnside has served as editor in chief of Aviation Safety magazine. He’s an airline transport pilot who owns a Beech Debonair, plus the expensive half of an Aeronca L-16B/7CCM Champ.
![This wasn’t a diversion. It’s just an old sight-seeing track the author flew a few years ago. But he uses it to illustrate an important point: The closest divert field with approaches, fuel, facilities and some level of civilization may be behind you. [Credit: Joseph Burnside]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/FLY0825-Aviation-Safety_B.jpeg)
