AIM Text
(See Appendix 4, FAA Form 7233-1, Flight Plan)
Within U.S. controlled airspace, FAA Form 7233-1 or DD Form 175 may be used by DoD aircraft. However, use of the DD Form 1801 by DoD aircraft is recommended for IFR flights and is mandatory for:
- Any flight that will depart U.S. controlled airspace.
- Any flight requesting routing that requires Performance Based Navigation.
- Any flight requesting services that require filing of capabilities only supported in the international flight plan.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 5-1-7.
The short answer
This AIM section is FAA advisory guidance on which flight plan forms are authorized for military/DoD use. Within U.S. controlled airspace DoD aircraft may use FAA Form 7233-1 or DD Form 175, but DD Form 1801 is recommended for IFR and mandatory for flights leaving U.S. controlled airspace, requesting Performance Based Navigation routing, or requesting services only supported in the international flight plan.
Research Notes
Common Questions
Which flight plan forms can DoD aircraft use in U.S. controlled airspace?
Per the AIM, within U.S. controlled airspace DoD aircraft may use FAA Form 7233-1 or DD Form 175. However, use of the DD Form 1801 is recommended for IFR flights. The order of flight plan elements in DD Form 175 is equivalent to that of FAA Form 7233-1.
When is the DD Form 1801 mandatory for a military flight?
The AIM makes DD Form 1801 mandatory for any flight that will depart U.S. controlled airspace, any flight requesting routing that requires Performance Based Navigation, and any flight requesting services that require filing capabilities only supported in the international flight plan.
Can civilians ever use FAA Form 7233-1?
Yes. The AIM states that civilians who file stereo route flight plans may use FAA Form 7233-1, Flight Plan. Otherwise this form is oriented toward DoD use within U.S. controlled airspace.