What should a pilot do if they have to deviate from their flight plan?

When a pilot has to deviate from their flight plan, the appropriate action is to notify Air Traffic Control (ATC) as soon as possible and provide reasons for the change. This is essential for maintaining safe and efficient air traffic management. Informing ATC allows them to adjust their traffic flow accordingly, ensuring that other aircraft in the vicinity can be safely adjusted to avoid conflicts.

Communication with ATC is critical for safety, especially if the deviation is due to unexpected circumstances such as weather changes, mechanical issues, or an emergency situation. By keeping ATC informed, the pilot helps facilitate a coordinated effort to manage air traffic and can receive any assistance or relevant updates they may need.

In contrast, continuing to fly without notifying ATC can lead to dangerous situations where the aircraft is not accounted for in the traffic system. Changing the destination without clearance could create serious risks for the aircraft and others in the airspace. Waiting until landing to explain the deviation is not practical, as immediate communication is vital in aviation to ensure safety.