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Flight following with complex routing

Asked by: 4877 views General Aviation, Private Pilot

As a fairly novice VFR private pilot, I virtually always use flight following for flights out of my local area.  Usually, it's just a matter of, "...VFR direct (destination) at (altitude), request flight following."  Later this summer I'll be flying from my home in the NE US to Florida, where I'll be doing a fair amount of flying around the state for the week or so I'll be there.

Given that several of my anticipated flights will involve somewhat complex routing, in order to reduce the risk of becoming alligator food or extended over-water ops, I'm wondering what the proper procedure for a FF request is, in those cases.  For example, flying from central FL to EYW will, by my own choice, involve navigating via various VORs and intersections, far from "direct".

When I make my FF request, do I give all the intersections and VORs in my route?  Or do I just give my destination and does ATC not really care how I get there, since I'm VFR?

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1 Answers



  1. Wes Beard on Jul 05, 2012

    Ususally ATC only is concerned about the destination and if you are heading in that general direction.  They will be able to see that you are following victor airways or going direct to a VOR.  I would ask for flight following like you normally do.  Cessna 123AB over Miami VOR at 3500ft requesting flight following to Key West.  If they are curious, they will ask you for your planned route.

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