Plain English Meaning

A document the pilot files before a flight that tells aviation authorities who is flying, what aircraft, where they are going, how they plan to get there, and how long it should take. It allows search and rescue or air traffic control to track the flight if needed.

Full Definition

Specified information relating to the intended flight of an aircraft, filed orally or in writing with an air traffic facility (such as a Flight Service Station or ATC). Standard items include aircraft identification, type and equipment, departure and destination points, route, altitude, true airspeed, time of departure, , on board, , information, and .