Pilot Exam Coach

US Private Pilot

Switch to Canada PSTAR
Decision making and flight planningQuestion 930 of 934

A pilot uses an assumed departure time for a VFR flight plan and then departs late. The pilot does not update the plan. What happens?

  1. Search and rescue starts at the actual departure time of the aircraft
  2. The tower automatically revises the departure time
  3. The flight plan is canceled at once
  4. Search and rescue is based on the assumed departure time
Show answer

Correct answer: Search and rescue is based on the assumed departure time

If the pilot does not update the plan, search and rescue activities use the assumed departure time.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 5-1-10 Flight Plan - VFR Flights, page 331

Practice decision making and flight planning

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026