Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

How long do you have to close a VFR flight plan before search and rescue is initiated?

1. One hour after ATA

2. One hour after landing

3. One-half hour after your ETA

4. One hour after your ETA

The correct answer is: One-half hour after your ETA

The correct answer is based on the guidelines established for VFR flight plans. When a pilot files a VFR flight plan, it is important to keep in mind the procedures that are triggered in the event of a missed landing or communication failure. If the aircraft has not arrived as planned or there is a lack of communication, search and rescue efforts can be initiated after a specific time period. In this case, the timing is calculated as one-half hour after the estimated time of arrival (ETA) for your flight. This timeframe allows for minor delays that may occur during a VFR flight, such as weather changes or unanticipated traffic, while still ensuring that search and rescue operations begin promptly to ensure pilot and passenger safety. Selecting one hour after landing or one hour after arrival at the destination would not accurately reflect the urgency associated with the potential risks in a VFR flight environment. Similarly, using one hour after ETA would not incorporate the necessary precautionary measures needed in case of unforeseen incidents. Therefore, the half-hour threshold after ETA is the appropriate standard set to balance pilot safety with timely search and rescue actions.