AIM Text
- Flight plans which combine VFR operation on an active VFR flight plan for one portion of a flight, and IFR for another portion, sometimes known as a composite flight plan, cannot be accepted or processed by current en route automation systems.
- Pilots are free to operate VFR in VFR conditions prior to accepting an IFR clearance from the appropriate control facility, or may cancel an IFR clearance and proceed VFR as desired. However, if a pilot desires to be on an active VFR flight plan, with search and rescue provisions, for the portion of flight not conducted under an IFR clearance, a separate VFR flight plan must be filed, activated, and closed.
- If a pilot desires to be on an active VFR flight plan prior to or following the IFR portion of the flight, that flight plan must be filed and processed as a distinct and separate flight plan. The VFR flight plan must be opened and closed with either a Flight Service Station or other service provider having the capability to open and close VFR flight plans. Air Traffic Control does not have the ability to determine if an aircraft is operating on an active VFR flight plan and cannot process the activation or cancellation of a VFR flight plan.
- Pilots may propose to commence the IFR portion of flight at a defined airborne point. This airborne point, or fix, is entered as the departure point in Item 13 of FAA Form 7233-4 or DD Form 1801.
- Pilots may indicate in the IFR flight plan the intention to terminate the IFR portion of flight at any defined airborne point. The airborne point, or fix, is entered as the destination point in Item 16 of FAA Form 7233-4 or DD Form 1801.
- Prior to beginning the IFR portion of flight, a pilot must receive an IFR clearance from the appropriate control facility.
- If the pilot does not desire further clearance after reaching the clearance limit, he or she must advise ATC to cancel the IFR clearance.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 5-1-9.
The short answer
This AIM section is FAA advisory guidance explaining that combined VFR/IFR "composite" flight plans cannot be processed by current en route automation. Pilots wanting both must file, activate, and close a separate VFR flight plan with Flight Service, and receive a separate IFR clearance from ATC before the IFR portion. It supports flight plan filing under 14 CFR 91.153 and 91.169.
Research Notes
Common Questions
Can I file one composite VFR/IFR flight plan for a single flight?
No. The AIM states a composite flight plan that combines VFR and IFR portions cannot be accepted or processed by current en route automation systems. To have both, you file two distinct, separate flight plans — a VFR plan you open and close with Flight Service, and an IFR plan with its clearance.
Where do I start or end the IFR portion at an airborne point?
Per the AIM, you may begin the IFR portion at a defined airborne fix entered as the departure point in Item 13 of FAA Form 7233-4 or DD Form 1801, and terminate it at a defined airborne fix entered as the destination point in Item 16. You must still receive an IFR clearance before beginning the IFR portion.
Can ATC open or close my VFR flight plan?
No. The AIM notes Air Traffic Control cannot determine whether an aircraft is on an active VFR flight plan and cannot process its activation or cancellation. You must open and close the VFR plan with a Flight Service Station or other service provider capable of doing so.