Task VI.C
Diversion
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with diversion.
References: AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; VFR Navigation Charts
Study Notes
- Weather deteriorating ahead or at the destination
- Fuel running lower than planned
- A mechanical or electrical problem
- A sick passenger
- An unexpected airport or runway closure
- Approaching darkness when I'm not prepared for it
The common thread: the original plan no longer fits the situation, and continuing to force it is the classic accident setup.
Nearest suitable, not just nearest. I weigh:
- runway length and surface versus the winds
- weather at the field
- fuel and services if I need them
- airspace and terrain between here and there
- remaining fuel and daylight
A towered field with services 10 minutes farther can beat a short strip 5 minutes away.
Divert first, refine second — turn toward the airport immediately, then tighten up the numbers while established:
- Course: eyeball it from the sectional, using a nearby VOR compass rose or a straightedge for the rough magnetic course.
- Distance: measure with the plotter, or use known chart references (latitude ticks: one minute is one nautical mile).
- Time: distance divided by groundspeed — at 120 kt groundspeed that's 2 nm a minute, so 24 nm is about 12 minutes.
- Fuel: time en route times the known burn rate, checked against what's actually in the tanks.
Then hold the ACS numbers: altitude ±200 ft, heading ±15°, and keep updating weather and position along the way.
Official ACS elementsreference
Knowledge2 elements
The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
PA.VI.C.K1Selecting an alternate destination.PA.VI.C.K2Situations that require deviations from flight plan or air traffic control (ATC) instructions.
Risk Management5 elements
The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:
PA.VI.C.R1Collision hazards.PA.VI.C.R2Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.PA.VI.C.R3Circumstances that would make diversion prudent.PA.VI.C.R4Selecting an appropriate airport or seaplane base.PA.VI.C.R5Using available resources (e.g., automation, ATC, and flight deck planning aids).
Skills6 elements
The applicant exhibits the skill to:
PA.VI.C.S1Select a suitable destination and route for diversion.PA.VI.C.S2Make a reasonable estimate of heading, groundspeed, arrival time, and fuel required to the “divert to” destination.PA.VI.C.S3Maintain the selected altitude, ±200 feet and heading, ±15°.PA.VI.C.S4Update/interpret weather in flight.PA.VI.C.S5Use displays of digital weather and aeronautical information, as applicable to maintain situational awareness.PA.VI.C.S6Promptly divert toward the destination.