SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-diversion-divert-promptly

In an emergency that requires going to an alternate airport, when should you turn toward it?

Promptly, then work out the heading, time and fuel once on course.

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  1. Promptly, then do the math en route ✔
  2. Only after plotting everything on the chart
  3. After landing at the original destination

Why: Trying to finish every calculation first can make an emergency worse. Turn toward the alternate, then note the time and figure the new heading, groundspeed and fuel.

Huh, didn't know that: The PHAK says it is usually easier to divert to an airport with a VOR or NDB on the field.

The dad joke
Why did the pilot change plans so fast? He was all about alternate endings.
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References

Answer: Promptly, then do the math en route. Trying to finish every calculation first can make an emergency worse. Turn toward the alternate, then note the time and figure the new heading, groundspeed and fuel.

  1. Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge FAA-H-8083-25C, Chapter 16 Navigation www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/18_phak_ch16.pdf
    However, in an emergency, divert promptly toward your alternate destination.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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