If routing changes midflight, what should you adjust?

• A. Rely on the original fuel plan regardless of routing changes.
• B. Inform ATC and do not recalc fuel.
• C. Recalculate trip fuel and reserves based on the new route, altitude, winds, and distance, and update dispatch as required.
• D. Inform passengers about fuel changes only.

Answer: (C)

When routing changes midflight, fuel planning must be updated to reflect the new path. The distance to the destination, the altitudes you’ll fly, and the winds along the updated route all affect how much fuel you’ll actually burn. Recalculating trip fuel and reserves ensures you still carry enough fuel for the mission, including contingencies and any required alternates, under the new conditions. Updating dispatch as required keeps the flight release accurate and compliant with procedures, and informs operations of the new plan so approvals, weight and balance, and performance calculations stay current. In short, a midflight routing change changes fuel needs, so recalculate and communicate the updated plan.