If dispatch is unable to file a flight plan due to technical problems, which option best describes the crew’s permissible self-file options?

If dispatch is unable to file a flight plan due to technical problems, which option best describes the crew’s permissible self-file options?

• A. Contact FSS on VHF and self-file.
• B. Call 1-800-WX-BRIEF and self-file.
• C. File through the flight planning portal.
• D. Both of the first two options are correct.

Answer: (D)

When dispatch can’t file because of technical problems, the crew can file the flight plan directly themselves using official channels. A Flight Service Station briefer can take the flight plan over the air on VHF and file it, and the 1-800-WX-BRIEF line provides a direct, official filing path along with weather briefings. The flight planning portal is a dispatcher-facing tool, typically not used by crews to self-file when dispatch is down, so it isn’t considered a permissible self-file option in this situation. That’s why both of the first two options are correct.

When dispatch can’t file because of technical problems, the crew can file the flight plan directly themselves using official channels. A Flight Service Station briefer can take the flight plan over the air on VHF and file it, and the 1-800-WX-BRIEF line provides a direct, official filing path along with weather briefings. The flight planning portal is a dispatcher-facing tool, typically not used by crews to self-file when dispatch is down, so it isn’t considered a permissible self-file option in this situation. That’s why both of the first two options are correct.