VFR Cross-Country Flight Planning Checklist
This VFR cross-country flight planning checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 91 general operating rules, FAA AC 61-23 (Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge) flight planning standards, FAA flight plan filing requirements, and VFR fuel reserve requirements. Designed for private and commercial pilots conducting thorough pre-flight planning for cross-country operations.
- Industry: Aviation
- Frequency: Per Event
- Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes
- Role: Pilot in Command
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 91 General Operating Rules, FAA AC 61-23 Pilot Handbook Aeronautical Knowledge, FAA 14 CFR 91.103 Preflight Action Requirements, FAA 14 CFR 91.151 VFR Fuel Requirements, FAA AIM Chapter 5 Air Traffic Procedures
Weather Planning
Weather evaluation for VFR.
- Standard weather briefing obtained from 1800wxbrief or ForeFlight?
- VFR conditions (3+ miles visibility, 1,000 ft ceiling) throughout route?
- Winds aloft obtained for planned altitude and route?
- AIRMETs for IFR, mountain obscuration, turbulence reviewed?
- Weather at alternate airports acceptable?
Fuel Planning
VFR fuel reserve compliance.
- Fuel calculation completed including 30-min day VFR reserve?
- Fuel on board meets or exceeds planned fuel required plus reserve?
- Fuel stops identified along route if needed?
- Fuel availability at en route and destination airports verified?
- Correct fuel grade confirmed (100LL or Jet A per POH)?
Navigation Planning
Route and navigation preparation.
- Current sectional charts obtained (within 56-day cycle)?
- Visual checkpoints identified along route?
- Magnetic headings calculated for each leg?
- GPS database current (if using GPS navigation)?
- Terrain and obstacle review completed for planned route?
Airspace Review
Airspace checks for VFR flight.
- Class B airspace authorization obtained if route transits Class B?
- Class D tower communications plan confirmed?
- TFRs checked along planned route?
- MOA and restricted areas reviewed along route?
- Departure and destination airport NOTAMs reviewed?
Aircraft Documents
Required aircraft documentation.
- ARROW documents in aircraft (Airworthiness, Registration, Radio, Operating limitations, Weight and balance)?
- Annual inspection current?
- 100-hour inspection current (if operated for hire)?
- VOR operational check within 30 days (IFR operations)?
- ADS-B Out equipment operational for Class B/C airspace?
Flight Plan and Emergency
Flight plan filing and emergency.
- VFR flight plan filed with FSS?
- Responsible person notified of planned route and ETA?
- ELT checked and operational?
- Emergency equipment on board appropriate for terrain?
- Flight Planning Notes
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Why Use This VFR Cross-Country Flight Planning Checklist?
This vfr cross-country flight planning checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for pilot in command professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.
Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 91 General Operating Rules, FAA AC 61-23 Pilot Handbook Aeronautical Knowledge, FAA 14 CFR 91.103 Preflight Action Requirements, FAA 14 CFR 91.151 VFR Fuel Requirements, FAA AIM Chapter 5 Air Traffic Procedures. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the VFR Cross-Country Flight Planning Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Weather Planning, Fuel Planning, Navigation Planning, Airspace Review, Aircraft Documents, Flight Plan and Emergency. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 30-60 minutes.
Who should use this VFR Cross-Country Flight Planning Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Pilot in Command professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.