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 proactively anticipate diversions by reviewing routes, weather, and potential alternative airports with necessary services during pre-flight planning.
When an unplanned diversion becomes necessary, pilots must immediately turn towards the chosen divert field, inform ATC, and strategically manage altitude (e.g., staying high for options, especially with engine issues).
Selecting a divert field involves considering available services like mechanics, 24-hour fuel, and amenities, with towered facilities often offering better resources and emergency support, a process simplified by modern electronic flight bags (EFBs).
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.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
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)
