When is it mandatory to file a VFR flight plan?

Filing a VFR flight plan is an essential practice that enhances safety and situational awareness, particularly in specific circumstances. The correct scenario where it is mandatory to file a VFR flight plan is during Defense VFR flights, when operating in Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), and for international flights.

In the case of Defense VFR flights, flight plans are required to facilitate easier tracking and management by air traffic control, which is crucial for maintaining security and situational awareness in designated airspace. This ensures compliance with military airspace requirements and enhances safety during such operations.

When flying in TFRs, filing a flight plan helps ensure that the flight is conducted safely, as TFRs are typically established for significant events such as air shows, natural disasters, or national security emergencies, where there may be a complex interaction of air traffic. A filed flight plan provides critical information to air traffic services about your intended route and helps prevent potential conflicts.

For international flights, a VFR flight plan is necessary due to legal requirements and to ensure compliance with the regulations of foreign airspace, thus enabling coordination with international air traffic services.

Filing a VFR flight plan is not mandatory for all VFR flights or solely based on the presence of passengers