SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-atc-deviation-emergency

If you deviate from an ATC instruction because of an emergency, what must you do?

Notify ATC of the deviation as soon as possible.

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  1. Nothing, emergencies need no report
  2. Notify ATC as soon as possible ✔
  3. Land at the nearest airport right away

Why: In an emergency the pilot in command may deviate from an ATC clearance or instruction. The rule then requires telling ATC about the deviation as soon as possible.

Huh, didn't know that: If ATC gave you priority in an emergency, they may ask for a detailed written report within 48 hours.

The dad joke
I told ATC I deviated. They said, thanks for keeping us in the loop, not the loop-the-loop.
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References

Answer: Notify ATC as soon as possible. In an emergency the pilot in command may deviate from an ATC clearance or instruction. The rule then requires telling ATC about the deviation as soon as possible.

  1. 14 CFR 91.123 Compliance with ATC clearances and instructions www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-91.123
    shall notify ATC of that deviation as soon as possible.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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