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 pre-plan for potential diversions, reviewing routes and considering contingencies, as unexpected events are common and flights rarely go exactly as planned.
When diverting, immediately turn towards the new field, inform ATC, and strategically manage altitude to maintain options and maximize efficiency, especially in cases of mechanical issues.
Choosing a divert airport involves assessing critical factors beyond just proximity, such as available services (fuel, maintenance), approach capabilities (e.g., ILS), and emergency resources; towered facilities often offer more comprehensive support.
While modern electronic flight bags (EFBs) simplify finding nearest airports and accessing data, they should enhance, not replace, thorough pre-flight diversion planning.
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)
