Hi all,
I have a doubt on how to understand the
GM1 CAT.OP.MPA.181(l)
In the context of fuel policy, in-flight re-planning means voluntarily changing the destination aerodrome, any alternate aerodrome, or the remainder of the route after the flight commences, even when the flight can be completed as originally planned. In-flight re-planning has a broader sense than being obliged to change the intended course of action due to safety issues (remaining fuel, failures, bad weather conditions, etc.). In-flight re-planning allows the operator to modify the filed flight plan after flight commencement for commercial or other reasons. However, the modified flight plan should fulfil all requirements of a new flight plan. The use of en route alternate (ERA) aerodromes to save fuel should comply with the in-flight re-planning requirements.
In-flight re-planning should not apply when the aircraft no longer continues via the flight plan route to the intended destination for reasons that could not be anticipated. In such cases, the in-flight fuel management policy dictates the commander’s course of action.
How does it apply exactly ?
If there is a safety issue and the crew need to go back to departure airport, Is the flight considered in in-flight fuel management or in-flight re-planning ?
Let's say, we depart from a station. In flight there is an issue (not emergency) and an action of maintenance is needed. The pilot decide to go back to the main station because the maintenance is needed (it is more practical compared to wait for a mechanics to arrive to the other planned arrival station). Is it considered as a voluntarily change ?