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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-deviate-emergency

When may you deviate from an ATC clearance without asking first?

In an emergency requiring immediate action.

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  1. Whenever the weather is better than forecast
  2. In an emergency requiring immediate action ✔
  3. When the controller sounds busy

Why: The AIM says to comply promptly with a clearance except as necessary to cope with an emergency. The pilot in command may deviate from any rule needed to handle it, then tell ATC.

Huh, didn't know that: A PIC who deviates from a rule in an emergency must send the FAA a written report of the deviation if asked.

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References

Answer: In an emergency requiring immediate action. The AIM says to comply promptly with a clearance except as necessary to cope with an emergency. The pilot in command may deviate from any rule needed to handle it, then tell ATC.

  1. AIM 5-5 Pilot/Controller Roles and Responsibilities www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap5_section_5.html
    Promptly complies with an air traffic clearance upon receipt except as necessary to cope with an emergency.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. 14 CFR 91.3 - Responsibility and authority of the pilot in command (LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/91.3
    In an in-flight emergency requiring immediate action, the pilot in command may deviate from any rule of this part to the extent required to meet that emergency.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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