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.
Research Notes
AIM 5-1-7 covers Flight Plan — IFR Flights — the procedure for filing and activating an IFR flight plan.
IFR flight plans are REQUIRED: Unlike VFR, an IFR flight plan must be filed before operating IFR in controlled airspace per § 91.173. The ATC system uses the flight plan to assign route, altitude, and to plan separation.
IFR flight plan content (per § 91.169): Aircraft ID, type, equipment suffix, route, destination, alternate (if required), fuel on board, persons on board, ETD, ETE.
Filing methods:
- 1800wxbrief.com — web filing
- Phone — 1-800-WX-BRIEF
- EFB apps — ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot
- Flight planning services — Jeppesen, Universal, Aircraft Routing
Obtaining the IFR clearance:
- At towered airport: Call Clearance Delivery on the published frequency
- At non-towered with Center coverage: Call Center on the appropriate frequency from the run-up area
- At non-towered without Center coverage on ground: Phone (1-800-WX-BRIEF or direct to Center) or use the airport's GCO (Ground Communication Outlet) to reach Center
The 'cleared as filed' clearance: Common simplification — ATC clears you to fly the route exactly as you filed. Any modifications stated explicitly.
Reference: § 91.169 (IFR flight plan); § 91.173 (clearance required); AIM 5-1-7.