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Diverting (very very very important)

The closing of flight plans is very important. If you fail to close your flight plan, French ATC will scramble a rescue helicopter and they will charge you the cost up to 3000 Euros (£2000) for a false alarm.

Unfortunately the rules in France and in the UK are almost opposites so beware! When landing in France ensure that your flight plan is closed. Below is a table which summarizes the situation:

Flight Plan

In England

In France

Can be closed on arrival by ATC

YES

YES

Can be closed by phone on arrival

Optional

YES

Can be closed in the air before landing

NO

YES

Air sea rescue activated if flight plan not closed

NO

YES

London Information (From England) 0 2087 453111

London Information (From France) 0044 2087 453111

Important Advice

If you have activated your flight plan and are forced to turn back before arriving in France take the following precautions:

1. Inform French ATC and ask them to close your flight plan.

2. Alternatively call London Information as soon as you are in range and ask them inform French ATC and your destination that you have diverted.

Note: London information will not close your flight plan until you are on the ground. If your diversion means that you will be more than 1/2 hr late it essential to get London info to inform French ATC.

3. Immediately on landing telephone London Information and close your flight plan formally. Yes you can even close your flight plan by phoning London Information from France!

p.s On returning to England I think it is good practice to close your flight plan with London information anyway even though they don't expect it!