What is the main purpose of a flight plan?

The main purpose of a flight plan is to inform air traffic control of the intended route and enhance safety. When a pilot files a flight plan, they provide vital information about the intended course, altitude, and estimated time of arrival. This communication with air traffic control helps to ensure that the airspace is managed effectively and that other aircraft are aware of the planned flight path, significantly contributing to overall flight safety. The flight plan acts as a crucial tool for maintaining situational awareness among both pilots and air traffic controllers, allowing for better coordination and management of air traffic, which ultimately reduces the risk of accidents.

While familiarity with the aircraft, fuel calculations, and pre-flight checklists are important aspects of flight preparation, they do not encapsulate the primary function of a flight plan, which focuses on communicating the flight route and ensuring the safety of all air traffic in the skies.