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Decision making and flight planningQuestion 774 of 934

A pilot does not close a VFR flight plan. When do search and rescue procedures start?

  1. Within 1/2 hour of the ETA
  2. Within 1 hour after the ETA
  3. Within 2 hours after the ETA
  4. Within 4 hours after the ETA
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Correct answer: Within 1/2 hour of the ETA

The pilot is responsible for closing the flight plan. Late closure causes needless search efforts.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 5-1-14 Closing VFR/DVFR Flight Plans, page 339

Practice decision making and flight planning

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026