En Route and Oceanic Services

Aeronautical Information and Flight Planning Enhancements

FAA ICAO Flight Planning Interface Reference Guide

Version 2.1

Federal Aviation
Administration

November 15, 2012

Air Traffic Organization En Route and Oceanic Services, ATO-E

Technical Performance Support Group, AJE- 36

 FAA ICAO Flight Planning Interface Reference Guide

Table of Contents
1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 7
1.1 Scope ........................................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Background ................................................................................................................ 7
1.3 FAA FPL Services ...................................................................................................... 8
1.4 Document Organization ........................................................................................... 8
2. Operational Use of Flight Planning Messages .......................................................................... 8
2.1 Initial FPL Filing ........................................................................................................ 8
2.1.1 Flights Remaining Entirely within U.S. Domestic Airspace ............................... 8
2.1.2 Flights Leaving U.S. Domestic Airspace ................................................................ 9
2.1.3 Flights Entering U.S. Domestic Airspace (from or Through Canada) ............... 9
2.1.4 Flights Entering U.S. Domestic Airspace (Except from Canada)........................ 9
2.1.5 Addressing an FPL Message .................................................................................... 9
2.1.6 Aircraft Identification ............................................................................................... 9
2.1.7 Optional Message Number .................................................................................... 10
2.1.8 FPLs with the Same Aircraft Identification ......................................................... 10
2.2 Changing an FPL after Filing ................................................................................. 11
2.2.1 Eligibility to Change FPL Data .............................................................................. 11
2.2.2 Identifying an FPL to be Changed ........................................................................ 11
2.2.3 Message Types Used to Change an FPL .............................................................. 12
3. Automated Filing of ICAO-Format Flight Planning Messages ............................................ 12
3.1 General Message Construction .............................................................................. 12
3.1.1 Header....................................................................................................................... 12
3.1.2 Message Syntax ........................................................................................................ 12
3.1.3 Message Content...................................................................................................... 14
3.2 Filed Flight Plan (FPL) Message ............................................................................ 15
3.2.1 FPL Contents ............................................................................................................ 15
3.2.2 FPL Examples........................................................................................................... 21
3.3 Modification (CHG) Message ................................................................................ 29
3.3.1 CHG Contents .......................................................................................................... 30
3.3.2 CHG Examples ........................................................................................................ 32
3.4 Delay (DLA) Message ............................................................................................. 34

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3.4.1 DLA Contents .......................................................................................................... 34

3.4.2 DLA Examples ......................................................................................................... 36
3.5 Cancellation (CNL) Message ................................................................................. 36
3.5.1 CNL Contents .......................................................................................................... 36
3.5.2 CNL Examples ......................................................................................................... 38
3.6 ACK Responses........................................................................................................ 38
3.6.1 Use of Optional Elements in Field 3 (Message Type), to Identify a Filed Flight
Plan (FPL).. ................................................................................................................................... 39
3.6.2 Examples of ACK Messages .................................................................................. 40
3.7 REJ Response............................................................................................................ 41
3.7.1 Examples of REJ Messages ..................................................................................... 42
3.7.2 Reason for a REJ Message ...................................................................................... 44
4. FAA Guidance for Equipment and Capabilities..................................................................... 51
4.1 Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) ................................................ 51
4.2 Navigation Capability............................................................................................. 51
4.3 Communications/Data Link Capability .............................................................. 51
4.4 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) ........................................................ 52
4.5 Performance Based Navigation ............................................................................. 52
4.5.1 North Atlantic Minimum Navigation Performance Specification (MNPS) .... 52
4.5.2 Oceanic RNP10 and 50 NM lateral or 50 NM longitudinal separation ........... 52
4.5.3 Oceanic RNP4 and 30/30 separation .................................................................... 53
4.5.4 Domestic Area Navigation (RNAV) Capability .................................................. 53
4.5.5 Domestic U.S. RNAV 1 Capability ........................................................................ 53
4.5.6 Domestic U.S. RNP Capability .............................................................................. 54
4.5.7 General Specification of RNAV Capability for FAA domestic route
assignment ................................................................................................................................... 54
5. Reference Material ...................................................................................................................... 55
5.1 Acronyms ................................................................................................................. 55
5.2 References ................................................................................................................. 58
5.3 ARTCC Four-letter Location Identifiers............................................................... 59

Attachments

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Attachment 1. Route (Field 15) Additions ........................................................................................ 36

Attachment 2. Other Information (Item 18) Additions ....................................................................... 40

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Change History

Change Description Action Date Version

Initial Release 12/20/07 1.1

Add change table; Insert table on pg. 3; 1/15/08 1.2

Change EET/ data filing Replace Section 2.1.1, para. 2, with new
instructions for flights para.
remaining entirely within
U.S. domestic airspace

Add specific information Section 3.1.2, insert para. 4 Message 4/30/08 1.3
about allowable characters Syntax, Allowable Characters in
in messages accordance with ICAO Annex 10,
Aeronautical Communications.
CHG example did not
include a complete Field 15 Replace example in Section 3.3.2, para.
(Fields 15a/b missing); 2, with new example
Add “Reserved” route-to- Replace “Reserved” para. with new 3rd
route transition information para. in Attachment 1, Section 2

Revised document to See comments in document. 4/5/11 2.0 draft

reflect changes associated
with ICAO 2012.
Updated filing guidance to
be consistent with other
FAA documents & added
references.

Corrected Items identified Final draft review version. 12/21/11 2.0

in reviews 2/13/12

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Change Description Action Date Version

Released 2.0 Version for Updates: 6/5/12 2.0

ICAO Amendment 1 (FPL 1. Various editorial cleanup
2012)
2. Clarified requirement for Field 8b
3. Added requirements for ADS-B
filing
4. Clarified some items where
behavior is different for the en
route and oceanic systems

Released 3.0 Version with Updates: 11/15/12 2.1

rewrite to comply with 1. Added guidance on addressing
ICAO requirements as of domestic and international flight
November 15th 2012 plans
2. Added guidance on message
processing and response
3. Added table of error messages and
their resolution
4. Added sample flight plans
5. Clarified oceanic guidance on
RNP10 and 50NM separation

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1. Introduction
1.1 Scope
This document provides references for filing International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Filed Flight Plans (FPL) and associated flight planning messages for flights within United States
domestic airspace. The information provided in this document augments instructions found in
the ICAO Procedures for Air Navigation Services – Air Traffic Management, Document 4444
(ICAO Doc. 4444), including Amendment 1 effective 11/15/2012, and incorporates published
supplementary requirements, instructions and guidelines for proper filing of FPLs with the
Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) En Route Automation System (ERAS).
This document provides instructions for filing ICAO flight planning messages within ERAS to
ensure message acceptance and the most efficient automation processing.
This document describes interface requirements for sending ICAO-format flight planning
messages via Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network (AFTN) to ERAS. It identifies
the standards on which these messages are based, describes FAA-specific content requirements,
and identifies data allowed in ICAO-format messages that is not used by FAA. The intended
audiences are flight plan service providers, military organizations, and airlines in the direct file
program that send flight planning messages to ERAS. These flight planning messages include:
1. Filed Flight Plan (FPL);
2. Modification (CHG);
3. Delay (DLA); and
4. Cancellation (CNL).

1.2 Background
The ability to fly a Performance Based Navigation (PBN) route depends on both the equipage of
the aircraft and the capability of the crew. The availability of a PBN route depends on current
airspace configuration and compatibility of the route with current Air Traffic Control (ATC)
conditions and procedures.
The current ERAS uses International Flight Plan (FAA Form 7233-4), Field 10 and Field 18,
NAV/RNV data, to determine a flight’s eligibility for PBN routing. In most cases, operators
filing a Domestic Flight Plan (FAA Form 7233-1) will be ineligible for assignment of PBN
routes, including Area Navigation (RNAV) departures and arrivals. FAA Form 7233-1 may not
be used for flights that will enter oceanic or non-U.S. airspace, or when PBN procedures are
requested, for the following reasons:
1. Incorrect assumptions may be made about flights filing Global Navigation Satellite
System (GNSS) or PBN with respect to navigation capability; and
2. FAA-unique equipment qualifiers cannot always be accurately translated to ICAO
equivalents; which is an issue for flights that traverse another country’s airspace (one that
follows ICAO conventions)

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FAA has resolved these issues by requiring an ICAO-format FPL to be filed, which accurately
specifies PBN capability and is compatible with ICAO standards. In addition, the implemented
solution improves the ability for the user to control the type of departure and arrival route
assigned by ERAS. This has been done by providing the means to specify PBN capability by
phase of flight in an FPL, and adapting computer assigned routes, based on filed ICAO
equipment qualifiers and navigation capabilities filed in ICAO Field 18, NAV/RNV.

1.3 FAA FPL Services

FAA FPL services include the ability to:
1. File an FPL up to 24 hours in advance of the filed Estimated Off-Blocks Time (EOBT);
2. Make modifications (CHG/DLA) to that FPL up to a set time before EOBT (nominally
30 minutes); and
3. Cancel a previously filed FPL up to a set time before EOBT (nominally 30 minutes).
Flight plan filer addresses adapted within ERAS will receive acknowledgement messages (i.e.,
acceptance (ACK) and/or rejection (REJ)) for each flight planning message sent to ERAS.

1.4 Document Organization

Section 2 describes the operational use of FPL messages, including rules and limitations for use,
expected responses and use by ATC.
Section 3 describes the format and content accepted by the ERAS for each type of flight
planning message and its associated fields.
Section 4 identifies FAA and ICAO documents, defines terms and acronyms, and provides
detailed reference material for field content.
Section 5 provides suggested guidelines for user flight planning interfaces.

2. Operational Use of Flight Planning Messages

2.1 Initial FPL Filing

2.1.1 Flights Remaining Entirely within U.S. Domestic Airspace

File an ICAO FPL if your flight will remain entirely within U.S. domestic airspace1 and the
operator desires application of RNAV routes. File only with the Air Route Traffic Control
Center (ARTCC) containing the departure airport; flight information is automatically passed to
each ARTCC along the route of flight. FPLs filed with any other ARTCCs along the route may
create duplicate flight plans and/or unnecessary flight plan rejections by downstream facilities.
ERAS does not require EET/ data in an ICAO FPL for the route portion in U.S. domestic
airspace. ERAS will accept EET/ data; however, it will not process that data if filed.

1
U.S. Domestic Airspace: In this document U.S. domestic airspace includes that airspace over the 48 contiguous
United States and Puerto Rico. It does not include any foreign or international airspace (e.g. oceanic airspace
controlled by Oakland, New York and/or Anchorage ARTCCs).

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Note: U.S. domestic airspace does not include any foreign or international airspace (e.g.
oceanic airspace controlled by ARTCCs at Oakland, New York and/or Anchorage).

2.1.2 Flights Leaving U.S. Domestic Airspace

File an FPL for any flight leaving U.S. domestic airspace. For the U.S. domestic portion of the
flight, file only with the ARTCC containing the departure airport. Flight information is
automatically passed to each ARTCC along the route of flight within U.S. airspace. FPLs filed
with any other U.S. domestic ARTCC along the route may be discarded or rejected by
subsequent ARTCCs.
Provide EET/ data starting with the first Oceanic or non-U.S. Flight Information Region (FIR) in
accordance with (IAW) guidance in ICAO Doc. 4444.
Note: If a flight leaves U.S. domestic airspace and later re-enters U.S. domestic airspace,
the reentry portion of the flight should be handled per Section 2.1.3, and 2.1.4 below.

2.1.3 Flights Entering U.S. Domestic Airspace (from or Through Canada)

Do not address the FPL to any U.S. domestic facility when entering U.S. domestic airspace from,
or through Canada. Current flight plan data will be automatically forwarded from the Canadian
Automated Air Traffic System (CAATS) to ERAS, prior to boundary crossing. FPLs addressed
to any U.S. domestic ARTCC along the route may create processing problems, including
duplicate flight plans and/or flight plan rejections by downstream facilities.

2.1.4 Flights Entering U.S. Domestic Airspace (Except from Canada)

An FPL is required when entering U.S. domestic airspace from international or oceanic airspace,
except from or through Canada. The FPL should be addressed to the first U.S. domestic FIR in
the route of flight. FPLs addressed to any other U.S. domestic ARTCC along the route may
create processing problems for downstream facilities. They may also be discarded or rejected by
those ARTCCs.

2.1.5 Addressing an FPL Message

Guidance on addressing flight plans for domestic or international flight planning can be found in
the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) ENR Section 1.11. AFTN addresses for sending
FPLs to ERAS are documented in ICAO Doc. 8585, Designators for Aircraft Operating
Agencies, Aeronautical Authorities and Services. The list of relevant addresses is also found in
section 5.3.Identifying a Flight in an FPL

2.1.6 Aircraft Identification

A 2 - 7 character aircraft identification is required in Item 7 of an FPL in compliance with ICAO
Doc. 4444 and ICAO Annex 7, Aircraft Nationality and Registration Marks, with the following
exception:
Exception: For FPLs filed with ERAS, if the aircraft identification starts with a number,
the FPL will be rejected. If this occurs, contact Flight Data at the ARTCC to which the
FPL was sent so they can ensure acceptance in ERAS. (FPLs filed with oceanic
automation are accepted is the aircraft identification starts with a number).

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2.1.7 Optional Message Number

FAA allows use of an Optional Message Number in Item 3, Field 3b, for routing of ACK/REJ
messages (see Section 3.6 for guidance on ACK/REJ messages). When provided, this Optional
Message Number allows ERAS to distinguish between multiple flights with the same aircraft
identification, departure point and destination. Field 3b consists of three parts and shall include:
Part 1. The three-letter National Data Interchange Network (NADIN) address where the
filer would like the ACK/REJ message sent, followed by an oblique stroke (XXX/);
Part 2. The four-letter location identifier (LOCID) of the ARTCC to which the FPL is
addressed by the filer (KZXX); and
Note: Allowable LOCIDs can be found in Section 5.3.
Part 3. A three-digit sequential message number assigned by the filer (ddd).
Example: COA/KZHU004 is message #004 addressed to Houston ARTCC with
ACK to Continental Airlines

Message numbers should be used sequentially, 001 through 999, before restarting the message
numbering sequence again at 001. Do not restart the message numbering sequence based on time
of day, e.g., restart at 001 at 0000Z, or there could be ambiguity when a CHG, CNL or DLA
message is received if the FAA automation system is storing multiple FPLs with the same
message number.

2.1.8 FPLs with the Same Aircraft Identification

Two or more FPLs filed to the same ARTCC with the same aircraft identification can be
accepted under some circumstances; but often cause problems. The processing rules for such
flight plans are summarized in Table 2-2-1.

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Table 2-2-1. Duplicate Flight Plan Rules

Scenario Recommendations Issues

Flight with File each leg of the flight in a None. Each FPL will have a different
multiple separate FPL as required. departure/destination and will thus be
stopovers distinguishable as separate legs by ERAS.

Multiple Do not file multiple FPLs with If departure, destination, departure time and
FPLs filed for the same departure, destination route are identical, subsequent FPLs will be
the same and departure time. rejected.
flight Send a CNL message for the If multiple FPLs are filed for the same
original FPL, or contact the departure, destination, departure time and
facility flight data unit to cancel route, there is a risk of confusion in
the FPL prior to filing a new FPL activating the wrong FPL, a risk of
with the same aircraft saturating computer resources, and
identification. additional ATC workload to manage the
multiple proposals.

Multiple As long as the flights have No issues.

flights from different departure times, each
the same flight can be filed independently
airport on the (i.e., multiple flights can be filed
same day at the same time for the same
day).

2.2 Changing an FPL after Filing

2.2.1 Eligibility to Change FPL Data

An FPL can be changed by the filing entity until the flight data has been displayed to ATC. This
is typically 30 minutes before proposed departure time, but may be an hour or longer in some
cases. If a revision is made to a previously filed FPL after the departure flight data has been
displayed to ATC, the message will be rejected. If this occurs, call the Flight Data Unit at the
departure ARTCC to coordinate the change.

2.2.2 Identifying an FPL to be Changed

When submitting a revision (i.e. DLA, CNL, or CHG) to a previously filed flight plan, the FPL
must be uniquely identifiable. The following information, when available, is used to match an
FPL in the database:
1. Aircraft Identification (Field 7a)
2. Optional Reference Data (Field 3c) – refers to the Optional Message Number (Field 3b)
of the FPL to be modified
3. Departure Aerodrome (Field 13a)

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4. Estimated Off-Block Time (EOBT)(Field 13b)

5. Destination Aerodrome (Field 16a)
6. Date of Flight (Field 18, DOF/), if one was filed
For example, if no Optional Reference Data or Departure Time is provided, and there is more
than one FPL with the same aircraft identification, Departure Aerodrome and Destination
Aerodrome, then the revision will be rejected. The most reliable form of reference is the
Optional Reference Data (Field 3c) because it uniquely identifies the FPL being modified in all
cases.
Note: IAW ICAO Doc. 4444, ERAS will not accept a CHG or CNL containing Field 16b
(Total EET).

2.2.3 Message Types Used to Change an FPL

The following ICAO flight planning messages should be used to change an FPL. The messages
should be formatted IAW Sections 3.3 through 3.5, below.
Send a Modification (CHG) message to revise any FPL field, including an Estimated Off-
Block Time (EOBT/Field 13b) that also requires a change to a previously filed Date of
Flight (Field 18, DOF/).
Send a Delay (DLA) message to change an EOBT that does not require a revision to the
DOF/. (For flights delayed over midnight, use the CHG message to change EOBT and
DOF/)Send a CNL message to cancel an FPL. If a CNL message is accepted, the FPL
will be deleted from ERAS.

3. Automated Filing of ICAO-Format Flight Planning Messages

3.1 General Message Construction

3.1.1 Header
Each message must contain an International Alphabet No. 5 (IA-5) header IAW ICAO Annex
10, Aeronautical Telecommunications, Volume 2.
Note: ERAS does not process the Optional Data Fields defined in Annex 10. If included,
the Optional Data Fields are ignored.
Note: ERAS does not process additional address lines (AD) as defined in Annex 10.

3.1.2 Message Syntax

Flight planning messages follow the structure described in ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3,
including:
1. After the header information, enclose message contents in parentheses.
2. Begin each field with a hyphen (“-“).
Note: Do not include a hyphen character within any field or the message will be rejected;
this error is most commonly observed in Field 18. Do not include additional fields (e.g.
Field 19) other than those allowed or the message will be rejected.

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3. ERAS accepts and processes the following messages:

a. FPL;
b. CHG;
c. DLA; and
d. CNL.
4. Allowable Characters per ICAO Annex 10, Aeronautical Communications:
Letters: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Figures: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
Other signs: It is strongly recommended that other special characters not be used, as
the characters accepted vary for different systems around the world. Some other
countries do not accept any special characters.

Doc. 4444 Special Allowed in Field Notes on FAA

Character
Rules 18 Implementation

Hyphen Only allowed as a field No

delimiter
-

Open Only allowed as a No

Bracket message delimiter.
(

Close Only allowed as a No

Bracket message delimiter.
)

Oblique Only allowed as a Only as a FAA systems will

delimiter as specified in delimiter for replace a hyphen with
/
Doc. 4444. defined a space when not part
indicators per of a known indicator.
Doc. 4444

Question Yes Translates to overcast

mark weather symbol in
domestic ERAS.
?

Colon Yes Translates to the clear

weather symbol in
:
domestic ERAS.

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Doc. 4444 Special Allowed in Field Notes on FAA

Character
Rules 18 Implementation

Period Yes
.

Comma Yes
,

Apostrophe Yes
‘

Equal sign Yes

=

Plus sign Yes

+

3.1.3 Message Content

Message content accepted by ERAS is per ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3, except as noted in
Sections 3.2 through 3.5. The content for response messages (ACK or REJ) sent from the ERAS
is per Section 3.6. There are no corresponding ICAO message definitions in Doc. 4444 for these
ACK/REJ messages.

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3.2 Filed Flight Plan (FPL) Message

3.2.1 FPL Contents

FAA generally follows ICAO Doc. 4444 for FPL message construction. Table 3-2-1 provides
instructions which address FAA-specific content requirements, limitations and exceptions.

Table 3-2-1. FPL Instructions

Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

3 (a) Message Type Designator Required FPL

(b) Optional Message Number Optional NTD/KZDC351

When included:
1. The three-letter NADIN address where the filer
would like the ACK/REJ message sent, followed
by an oblique stroke (XXX/);
2. The four-letter LOCID of the ARTCC to which the
FPL is addressed by the filer (KZXX); and
3. A three-digit sequential message number assigned
by the filer (ddd).

(c) Optional Reference Data Prohibited

7 (a) Aircraft Identification Required N123W

This field must contain a 2 to 7 character identifier. UAL101

CGXWL
Note: The domestic ERAS will not accept an aircraft
identification that begins with a number.

Oblique Stroke Prohibited

(b) Beacon Mode Prohibited
(c) Beacon Code Prohibited

8 (a) Flight Rules Required I

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

(b) Type of Flight Optional S

for
domestic
flights;
otherwise
Required

9 (a) Number of Aircraft Required if 3

number of 11
Include the number of aircraft, up to 99, if the number is
aircraft is 2
greater than 1.
or more;
If there is one aircraft, omit this element. otherwise
If there are more than 99 aircraft, use 99. Prohibited

(b) Type of Aircraft Required C172

Must be an approved type designator consistent with B753

ICAO Doc. 8643. ICAO type designators are available at ZZZZ
http://www.icao.int/anb/ais/8643/index.cfm.
If there is no approved type designator for the aircraft,
insert the characters ZZZZ and enter the aircraft type in
Field 18 after “TYP/”.

(c) Wake Turbulence Category (WTC) Required H

Must match the WTC for the Field 9b Type of Aircraft as M

published in ICAO Doc. 8643; this information is L
available at http://www.icao.int/anb/ais/8643/index.cfm.
Note: If ICAO and FAA standards differ, the user should
file the ICAO standard for WTC indicator.
Note: Use of a “J” for the Airbus 380 (type designator
A388) is not defined in Doc. 4444 and the ERAS will not
accept a “J” in Field 9c.

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

10 (a) Radio Communication, Navigation and Approach Aid Required SG

Equipment and Capabilities SGHIRW
Include capability per ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3. SE1J2DGW

Note: Codes which convey equipment capability may be SDGW

listed in any sequence.
Indicate PBN capability by filing “R” and describing the
capability in PBN/ and NAV/ as described in Section 4
below. Note that filing an “R” without filing PBN/ will
result in flight plan rejection.
Indicate other navigation, communications, or data
application capability by filing “Z” and describing the
capability in NAV/, COM/, or DAT/ in Field 18. This
should normally be done only per ANSP instruction.
Note that filing a “Z” without filing NAV/, COM/, or
DAT/ will result in flight plan rejection.
The FAA instructions regarding when it is appropriate to
file a particular capability are in Section 4.0

(b) Surveillance Equipment Required C

Include capability per ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3, as S

follows: E
SB1G1
One letter indicating the transponder capability, if
SB1U2
any, followed by

A code for each ADS-B capability present, if any.

File at most one code each for 1090ES, UAT, and
VDL capabilities followed by

A code for each ADS-C capability present.

Note: FPLs indicating ADS-C capability in Field 10b
should also contain Field 18, REG/ data.
Indicate other surveillance capability by describing the
capability in SUR/ in Field 18. This should normally be
done only per ANSP instruction. The FAA requires
information in SUR/ when ADS-B capability for UAT or
1090ES compliant with RTCA DO-282B or DO-260B is
filed. (No entry is required for 260A or 282A equipment)

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

13 (a) Departure Aerodrome Required KJFK

File the location identifier (LOCID) of the departure KGAI

point as listed in ICAO Doc. 7910, ZZZZ

or
If there is no Doc. 7910 location identifier, file a location
identifier from FAA Order 7350.8 (at
http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/) following
the instructions in Section 1-4-1 of that order.
or
If the LOCID contains a number, if no LOCID is
assigned or if the LOCID is not known:
Insert “ZZZZ” in Item 13 and
Provide departure airport information in Item 18 by
inserting “DEP/” followed by data described in
Attachment 2, DEP/.
Note: The domestic ERAS does not accept “AFIL” in
Field 13a.

(b) Time Required 1200

Enter the Estimated Off-Block Time (EOBT) 2230

15 (a) Expected Cruise speed per ICAO Doc. 4444, Required N0443
Appendix 3. M081
Note: The domestic ERAS will not accept metric speed
(e.g., K0800). The Oceanic system in KZAK, KZWY,
and PAZA will accept metric speed.
Note: The speed filed in this Field should be the
expected speed at the requested Initial Cruise Altitude
filed in Field 15b below.

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

(b) Requested Altitude per ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3. Required F310

Note: The domestic ERAS will not accept metric altitude A070
(e.g., M1400). The Oceanic system in KZAK, KZWY,
and PAZA will accept metric altitude.
Note: Information is this Field should reflect the
requested “Initial Cruise Altitude,” which is defined as
the first planned en route altitude, determined without
regard to intermediate level-offs due to airway, or
airspace strata, or ATC departure procedures. This may
be the final requested altitude, or an altitude associated
with a filer planned step climb level-off.

(c) Route, IAW ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3, with Required See
additions IAW Attachment 1, Route (Field 15) Additions. Attachment
1
Note: Speed and altitude changes in Field 15c are
permitted, but are not part of the clearance per the
Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). The
controller has limited ability to see such data.

16 (a) Destination Aerodrome Required KSFO

File the location identifier (LOCID) of the destination as KOUN

listed in ICAO Doc. 7910, ZZZZ

or
If there is no Doc. 7910 location identifier, file a location
identifier from FAA Order 7350.8 (at
http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/) following
the instructions in Section 1-4-1 of that order.
or
If the LOCID contains a number, no LOCID is assigned
or the LOCID is not known:
Insert “ZZZZ” in Item 16 and
Provide destination airport information in Item 18 by
inserting “DEST/” followed by the data described in
Attachment 2, DEST/.

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

(b) Total Estimated Elapsed Time (EET) Required 0344

Enter the EET per ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3.

(c) Alternate Aerodrome Optional KLAS

File the location identifier (LOCID) of the alternate as KGAI

listed in ICAO Doc. 7910, ZZZZ

or
If there is no Doc. 7910 location identifier, file a location
identifier from FAA Order 7350.8 (at
http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/) following
the instructions in Section 1-4-1 of that order.
or
If the LOCID contains a number, no LOCID is assigned
or the LOCID is not known:
Insert “ZZZZ” in Item 16 and
Provide alternate airport information in Item 18 by
inserting “ALTN/” followed by the data described in
Attachment 2, ALTN/.
Note: ERAS stores this data but performs no processing
of it.

18 Other Information IAW ICAO Doc. 4444, Appendix 3, Required -0

with additions IAW Attachment 2, Other Information -EET/
(Item 18) Additions. CZYZ0201
KZOB0624
Note: If there is no information in Item 18, insert “-0” KZID0659
(single hyphen with a zero) IAW ICAO Doc 4444. RMK/NRP
ADCUS
For detailed instructions, see Attachment 2.

19 ERAS will reject an FPL which includes Field 19. Prohibited

Note: Use of a hyphen within Field 18 will be interpreted
as the beginning of Field 19 data and will cause rejection
of the FPL.

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3.2.2 FPL Examples

Following are examples of FPLs.
Basic Flight Plan
(FPL-N12345-IG
-C172/L-SD/C
-KGAI0710
-N0110A080 DCT EMI DCT
-ZZZZ0119 KEDG
-DEST/MD31)

Flight Capable of RNAV 1 which Remains Entirely within U.S. Domestic Airspace
(FPL-UAL1447-IS
-A320/M-SDGIRWZ/S
-KIAD2130
-N0440F360 DCT DAILY J61 HUBBS DCT KEMPR DCT ILM
AR21 CRANS FISEL2
-KFLL0206
-PBN/D1S1 NAV/RNVD1E2A1)

Flight which Remains Entirely within U.S. Domestic Airspace, Destination LOCID
contains a number
(FPL-TST101-IG
-C172/L-SD/C
-KFDK1025
-N0110A080 DCT EMI DCT TAFFI DCT
-ZZZZ0026
-DEST/MD31)

Flight Leaving U.S. Domestic Airspace

(FPL-AAL945-IS
-B763/H-SXWJ5E3GDHIRYZ/SB2D1
-KDFW0210
-N0473F330 JPOOL9 BILEE J87 IAH DCT VUH B753 MARTE UB753 BZE

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DCT LIB UG436 LIXAS/N0465F370 UG436 TRU UL780 SULNA DCT TOY
UW208 EMBAL BAYOS3
-SCEL0902 SAEZ
-PBN/A1B2D1 NAV/RNVD1E2A1 REG/N396AN EET/MMID0114 SEGU0417
SPIM0455 MOXES0623 SCFZ0655 LIVOR0742 SCEZ0810 SEL/KLPS CODE/A49920)

Flight Entering U.S. Domestic Airspace, EET data for 1st U.S. FIR, only
Note: An FPL should not be addressed to any U.S. domestic FIR for flights inbound
from or through Canadian airspace.

(FPL-AAL946-IS
-B763/H-SXWDHIJ5GRYZ/SD1
-SCEL0140
-N0473F310 ELBOS2 VTN DCT TOY UL302 LIM UG436 TRU UG436 TAL
UG436 RADIM/N0471F350 UG436 LIB DCT BZE UB753 MID B753 VUH DCT
CQY CQY5
-KDFW0928 KDAL
-PBN/A1C4D4 NAV/RNVD1E2A1 REG/N371AA EET/SCFZ0049 SPIM0210 SEGU0411
MHTG0449 MMID0706 KZHU0801 SEL/APGQ CODE/A43783)

Error-Multiple Transponder Codes

Note that while multiple characters are now permitted in Field 10b, you should still file only one
letter for the transponder capability. The following is INCORRECT because it includes both “A”
and “C” in Field 10b. FAA systems will reject this flight plan.
(FPL-N12345-IG
-C172/L-SD/AC
-KGAI0710
-N0110A080 DCT EMI DCT
-ZZZZ0119 KEDG
-DEST/MD31)

ADS-B

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The amendment provides a means in Field 10b to file up to 3 types of ADS-B capability. The
United States will use two of them: UAT, and 1090-ES. VDL will not be used in the U.S. V1 and
V2 can be filed, but will not be treated as ADS-B capable.
Furthermore, the FAA will look at SUR/ to determine whether the filed capability is RTCA DO-
260B or DO-282B compliant.
Finally, in order to reliably match the ADS-B reports to a flight plan, the Mode S Code should be
filed in CODE/. Here is a basic flight plan indicating UAT out capability, showing DO-282B
compliance and providing the Mode S address.
(FPL-N141AB-IG
-C550/L-SGDW/CU1
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-SUR/282B CODE/A0A669)

ADS-B, Multiple Capabilities

A flight plan can indicate 1090-ES, UAT, and/or VDL capability as follows.
(FPL-FDX734-IS
-A310/M-SDGW/SB1U2V1
-KGSO0116
-N0462F360 QUAK3 CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-SUR/260B 282B CODE/A519D9 REG/N248FE)

Error: Redundant ADS-B

File UAT out, or UAT in-out, but not both. File in the same manner for 1090-ES. The following
is incorrect because it includes U1 and U2. FAA systems will reject this flight plan.
(FPL-N141AB-IG
-C550/L-SGDW/CU1U2
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-SUR/282B CODE/A0A669)

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Error: Missing ADS-B Certification

The following won’t be considered ADS-B capable in the U.S. because it does not indicate DO-
282B certification. The flight plan will be accepted, but not considered ADS-B capable.
Depending on the airspace and routes involved, a flight could be put on a less desirable route if it
is not listed as ADS-B capable.
(FPL-N141AB-IG
-C550/L-SGDW/CU1
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-CODE/A0A669)

RVSM Capability
If the flight is approved for RVSM operations per 14 CFR, Sections 91.180 and 91.706 then
indicate that approval by inserting a W in Field 10a. Any flight requesting an altitude in RVSM
airspace must be approved for RVSM operations unless it meets one of the exceptions noted in
the AIM Section 4-6.
(FPL-FDX734-IS
-A310/M-SDGW/CB1U2
-KGSO0116
-N0462F360 QUAK3 CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-SUR/260B 282B REG/N248FE CODE/A519D9)

Non-RVSM Operation in RVSM Airspace

If one of the exceptions in AIM Section 4-6 is met, the aircraft may file for an altitude in RVSM
airspace when not RVSM capable. When filing into RVSM airspace under one of these
exceptions, aircraft must never file a W in Field 10a.
(FPL-LN141AB-IG
-C550/L-SGD/CU1
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT
TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-STS/MEDEVAC NONRVSM SUR/282B CODE/A0A669)

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Error: Inconsistent filing of RVSM Capability

The following flight plan is incorrect because it indicates the flight is RVSM approved and that it
is Non-RVSM. Currently FAA systems will accept this flight plan and it is up to ATC to detect
the issue. At some point Automation will be updated to reject such a flight plan.
(FPL-LN141AB-IG
-C550/L-SGDW/CU1
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT
TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-STS/MEDEVAC NONRVSM SUR/282B CODE/A0A669)

Error: Non-RVSM indicated in the wrong place

The following flight plan is incorrect because it indicates Non-RVSM somewhere other than in
STS/. FAA systems will accept this flight plan, but the NONRVSM indication is in the wrong
place.
(FPL-LN141AB-IG
-C550/L-SGD/CU1
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT
TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-STS/MEDEVAC SUR/282B CODE/A0A669
RMK/NONRVSM)

Performance Based Navigation: RNAV-1 (Domestic Flight)

For RNAV-1 operations the flight plan format dictates filing an R in Field 10a and PBN/ in Field
18. Codes D1, D2, and D4 indicate RNAV-1 capability that is consistent with FAA AC 90-
100A. Initially the FAA will continue to require the existing filing practice which means no
change is necessary for domestic flights. International flights will however need both PBN/ and
NAV/ information as shown below. Note that PBN/ can also be filed for domestic flights if
desired (but the NAV/RNV information is still required).
(FPL-N234W-IG
-C550/L-SDGLWZ/C

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 FAA ICAO Flight Planning Interface Reference Guide

-KPWM0030
-N0350F380 BRUWN2 ACK J62 RBV DCT CHS SSI3
-KJAX0119 KCRG
-NAV/RNVD1E2A1)

Performance Based Navigation: RNAV-1 (International Flight)

If a flight is international, it is important to include the PBN/ information to receive services
from other countries.
(FPL-N234W-IG
-CRJ9/L-SDGLRWZ/C
-KIAH1245
-N0444F380 LOA6 ADM J52 LAA DCT DVV DCT
VUCAN SATUL2
-CYYC0347 CYEG
-PBN/D2 NAV/RNVD1E2A1)

Error: “R” filed in 10a without PBN/ data

Remember to file an R in 10a to signal PBN/, and a Z in 10a to signal NAV/, COM/, or DAT/
information. When “R” is filed in 10a, PBN/ data must be present. The FAA and most systems in
the world will reject a flight plan with an R but no PBN/.
(FPL-N234W-IG
-C550/L-SDGLRWZ/C
-KPWM0030
-N0350F380 BRUWN2 ACK J62 RBV DCT CHS SSI3
-KJAX0119 KCRG
-NAV/RNVD1E2A1)

Error: PBN/ and Field 10a are Inconsistent

Remember to file equipment information that is consistent with the PBN/ capability file: If you
file PBN/D2 (RNAV-1 using GNSS) and do not file a G in Field 10a to indicate GNSS
capability, your flight plan will likely be rejected:
(FPL-N234W-IG
-CRJ9/L- SDLRWZ/C
-KIAH1245

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-N0444F380 LOA6 ADM J52 LAA DCT DVV DCT

VUCAN SATUL2
-CYYC0347 CYEG
-PBN/D2 NAV/RNVD1E2A1)

Performance Based Navigation: RNP-10 (Ocean)

File an R in Field 10a, and PBN/A1 to indicate Oceanic RNP-10. The example below shows a
flight indicating both RNP-10 and RNAV-1 capability.
(FPL-UAL43-IS
-B763/H-SDGHIRWXYZ/SB1
-KDEN0030
-N0459F320 DCT DBL DC KROST DCT OAK DCT BEBOP R464
BITTA MAGGI3
-PHNL0654 POGG
-PBN/A1D2 NAV/RNVD1E2A1 REG/N669UA EET/KZLC0041
KZOA0131 KZAK0240 PHZH0608 CODE/A8D76B)

Performance Based Navigation: RNP-4; eligible for 30/30 separation

File an R in Field 10a and PBN/L1 to indicate RNP-4 capability. To be eligible for 30/30
separation the flight must have CPDLC capability and ADS-C capability. For operations in
Oakland and New York Oceanic airspace, D1 is the only ADS-C capability supported. The
CPDLC capabilities that can be supported are still being determined, but will include at a
minimum J1, J5, and J7.
(FPL-UAL43-IS
-B763/H-SDGHIJ7RWXYZ/SB1D1
-KDEN0030
-N0459F320 DCT DBL DC KROST DCT OAK
DCT BEBOP R464 BITTA MAGGI3
-PHNL0654 POGG
-PBN/A1D2L1 NAV/RNVD1E2A1 REG/N669UA
EET/KZLC0041 KZOA0131 KZAK0240 PHZH0608
CODE/A8D76B)

Special Handling-e.g. MEDEVAC

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MEDEVAC is used for Life-Critical flights and will replace Lifeguard. However, for now the
“L” prefix in the callsign may still be used.
(FPL-LN141AB-IG
-C550/L-SDGW/CU1
-KAOO1245
-N0380F320 TATES3 TATES V469 NESTO DCT
TVT KEATN5
-KCLE037
-STS/MEDEVAC SUR/282B CODE/A0A669)

Special Handling-e.g. HAZMAT

(FPL-XYZ144-IG
-LJ35/L-SGW/C
-KADS1245
-N0440F400 WORTH5 TXO DCT ABQ J6 HEC LYNXX8
-KBUR0300
-STS/HAZMAT REG/N108JN RMK/HAZARDOUS CARGO
RADIOACTIVE PHARMACEUTICALS)

Error: Invalid STS/ content

Do not put any information in STS/ other than one of the approved keywords. Any additional
information must be put in RMK/ as shown above. The following flight plan will be rejected:
(FPL-XYZ144-IG
-LJ35/L-SGW/CB1
-KADS1245
-N0440F400 WORTH5 TXO DCT ABQ J6 HEC LYNXX8
-KBUR0300
-STS/HAZARDOUS CARGO RADIOACTIVE
PHARMACEUTICALS SUR/260B REG/N108JN)

Testing some Limits

The following flight plan shows a hypothetical Field 10 that exceeds the 69 character line limit.
It will be acceptable for FAA systems to break the line between Field 10a and 10b. Also
acceptable would be to break between Fields 9 and 10. Also at the limit is the PBN/ field. It has

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become apparent that some existing aircraft can exceed the capacity of PBN/ if they try to put in
all capabilities.
(FPL-N123A-IG
-B772/L-SABDE1E2E3FGHIJ1J2J3J4J5J6J7M1M2M3RWXYZ
/SB2U2V2D1G1
-KIAD2257
-N0479F350 DCT SWANN V268 BROSS J42 RBV DCT
JFK DCT PUT DCT EBONY/N0478F370 N109B DOTTY/M083F370
NATT DOGAL/M082F370 NATT BABAN/N0486F370
UN544 DEVOL UN546 STU UL9 LINDY/N0435F250 UL9
BIG/N0440F230 UL9 DVR W71 VABIK UW70 KOK DCT
-EBBR0648 EBCI
-PBN/A1B1C2D2L1O2S1T1 NAV/RNVD1E2A1
EET/KZNY0020 KZBW0030 CZQM0111 CZQX0146 EGGX0405 EISN0506
EGTT0549 EBBU0625
SEL/AQBG CODE/AA84CB RALT/CYYR BIKF EINN
RMK/TCAS AGCS 120 ETOPS)

3.3 Modification (CHG) Message

The CHG message is used to revise any FPL field, including an Estimated Off-Block Time
(EOBT/Field 13b) that also requires a change to a previously filed Date of Flight (Field 18,
DOF/).. Use the Delay (DLA) message to change an EOBT that does not revise a previously
filed DOF/. (See Section 3.4, DLA Message, below). There are a number of rules for acceptable
CHG messages, including:
1. The CHG must originate from the same source as the FPL.
2. A CHG can modify any of Fields 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16 or 18.
3. A CHG cannot modify the same Field more than once in the same message.
4. If the aircraft identification (Field 7) is changed, it must be the only Field changed.
5. If Field 13a or 16a is changed, make sure the original departure or destination is included
in Fields 13a and 16a, and the new departure or destination is included in Field 22 of the
CHG.
6. If Field 13 or 16 is modified to contain “ZZZZ”, a corresponding Field 18 entry
following DEP/ or DEST/, as appropriate, must also be included.
7. If Field 15 is modified, always include Field 13 and 16 in the message.
Note: Fields 7, 13, 16, and 18 in the CHG message must contain the entered information
from the original FPL before the modification contained in Field 22.

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Note: If a flight plan was filed with a valid DOF/, then a change to the departure time
that also changes the date of flight (i.e. delays past midnight) should not be
communicated using the DLA message—a CHG message should be used to convey the
Field 13 and Field 18 changes using Field 22. Remember that the Field 18 filed in CHG
and DLA should always reflect the DOF/ that was previously filed.

3.3.1 CHG Contents

FAA generally follows ICAO Doc. 4444 with regard to CHG message construction. Table 3-3-1
provides instructions which address FAA-specific content requirements, limitations and
exceptions.

Table 3-3-1. CHG Instructions

Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

3 (a) Message Type Designator Required CHG

(b) Optional Message Number Optional NTD/KZDC351

When included:
1. The three-letter NADIN address where the filer
would like the ACK/REJ message sent, followed
by an oblique stroke (XXX/);
2. The four-letter LOCID of the ARTCC to which
the FPL is addressed by the filer (KZXX); and
3. A three-digit sequential message number
assigned by the filer (ddd).

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

(c) Optional Reference Data Optional NTD/KZDC347

When included, the Optional Reference Data should

match the Optional Message Number (Field 3b) of
the FPL message being modified by the CHG. If a
CHG message is submitted without the Optional
Reference Data, the FAA automation system will
attempt to amend that flight if no ambiguity exists;
however, if multiple FPLs exist which meet the
criteria of that CHG message, the CHG message will
be rejected.

7 (a) Aircraft Identification Required N123W

This field must contain the 2 to 7 character aircraft AWE101

identification that matches the FPL previously sent.

Oblique Stroke Prohibited

(b) Beacon Mode Prohibited
(c) Beacon Code Prohibited

13 (a) Departure Airport Required KJFK

LOCID that matches the LOCID previously sent. ZZZZ

KRDM
Note: ERAS does not accept “AFIL” in Field 13a.

(b) Time Required 1330

Note: Use a DLA message to change the time if that

is the only modification. Time in 13b in any case is
the estimated off-block time before this change.

16 (a) Destination Airport Required KMIA

LOCID that matches the LOCID previously sent. KDVT

ZZZZ

(b) Time of Arrival Prohibited

(c) Alternate Airport Prohibited

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

18 Other Information, DOF/ portion if available, else -0 Required -DOF/121205

The DOF/ sent should match what was previously -0

sent in the FPL (or last CHG that affected the DOF/).
If no DOF/ was included in Field 18 then include -0.
Note: It is important to send only the DOF/ portion
and not the entire contents of Field 18.

22 (a) Field Indicator Required 13

The 1 to 2 digit number identifying the field to be

modified.

Oblique stroke Required /

(b) Amended Data Required Field 13

example:
Complete new contents of the field, per the
KJFK1200
specifications for that field.
Field 8
Always include the entire field contents, including example:
elements that did not change. IS

3.3.2 CHG Examples

Following are examples of CHG messages.
Always include Fields 7, 13, 16 and Field 18, DOF/ in a CHG message as they were before the
change. In the following example, the original Departure Aerodrome was KJFK, and the new
Departure Aerodrome is KLGA:
(CHG-TST001-KJFK1205-KBOS-DOF/121205-13/KLGA1200-15/N0485F310 DCT
MERIT DCT ORW 16/KBOS0028)
Additional examples can be found below:
Change to flight plan equipment
(FPL-FDX734-IS
-A310/M-SDE1GJ2RW/SB1
-KGSO0116
-N0462F360 QUAK3 CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-PBN/A1D1 SUR/260B CODE/A519D9 REG/N248FE)

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(CHG-FDX734-KGSO0116-KEWR-0-10/SDE1GJ2RW/S)
Notice that the CHG must contain a Field 18. Because there was no DOF/ filed, the Field 18 is
simply -0.

Change to EOBT over midnight, DOF/ was filed in the FPL

(FPL-N123A-IG
-C550/L-SDE1GJ2RW/S
-KINT2344
-N0462F360 DCT CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-PBN/A1D1 DOF/121120 REG/N123A)
(CHG-FDX734-KINT2344-KEWR-DOF/121120-13/KINT0016-18/PBN/A1D1
DOF/121121)
Then a second delay on the same day. The CHG references the last EOBT and DOF provided.
(CHG-FDX734-KINT0016-KEWR-DOF/121121-13/KINT0130)
Note: In the second case, DLA could have been used instead.
(DLA-FDX734-KINT0130-KEWR-DOF/121121)

Change to EOBT over midnight, DOF/ was not filed in the FPL
Because the FAA does not require a DOF/, if a flight plan is filed for today and then delayed
after midnight, no reference to DOF/ is necessary.
(FPL-N123A-IG
-C550/L-SDE1GJ2RW/S
-KINT2344
-N0462F360 DCT CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-PBN/A1D1 REG/N123A)
(CHG-N123A-KINT2344-KEWR-0-13/KINT0016)
Once again, DLA can be used instead:
(DLA-N123A-KINT0016-KEWR-0)

ERROR: Attempt to Change EOBT in Field 13 of a CHG

EOBT cannot be changed by using Field 13 in a CHG. Field 13 serves to identify the flight plan
being modified; you must put the Field 13 change in a Field 22.

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(FPL-N123A-IG
-C550/L-SDE1GJ2RW/S
-KINT2344
-N0462F360 DCT CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-PBN/A1D1 REG/N123A)
(CHG-N123A-KINT0016-KEWR-0)

ERROR: Attempt to Change DOF/ in Field 18 of a CHG

(FPL-N123A-IG
-C550/L-SDE1GJ2RW/S
-KINT2344
-N0462F360 DCT CREWE J51 FAK DYLIN4
-KEWR0112
-PBN/A1D1 DOF/121120 REG/N123A)
(CHG-FDX734-KINT2344-KEWR-DOF/121121)

3.4 Delay (DLA) Message

The DLA message is used to change the proposed departure time of a previously filed FPL.
Note: If a flight plan was filed with a valid DOF/, then a change to the departure time that also
changes the date of flight (i.e. delays past midnight) should not be communicated using the DLA
message—a CHG message should be used to convey the Field 13 and Field 18 changes using
Field 22. Remember that the Field 18 filed in CHG and DLA should always reflect the DOF/
that was previously filed. If a DLA message is used to process a delay over midnight the message
will be accepted; however, ERAS will not update DOF/. Any further changes to the flight plan
after the DLA message is processed would require the original DOF/ be referenced.

3.4.1 DLA Contents

FAA generally follows ICAO Doc. 4444 with regard to DLA message construction. Table 3-4-1
provides instructions which address FAA-specific content requirements, limitations and
exceptions.
Table 3-4-1. DLA Instructions

Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

03 (a) Message Type Designator Required DLA

(b) Optional Message Number Optional NTD/KZDC351

When included:
1. The three-letter NADIN address where the filer
would like the ACK/REJ message sent, followed
by an oblique stroke (XXX/);
2. The four-letter LOCID of the ARTCC to which
the FPL is addressed by the filer (KZXX); and
3. A three-digit sequential message number
assigned by the filer (ddd).

(c) Optional Reference Data Optional NTD/KZLA347

When included, the Optional Reference Data should

match the Optional Message Number (Field 3b) of
the FPL message being modified by the DLA. If a
DLA message is submitted without the Optional
Reference Data, the FAA automation system will
attempt to amend that flight if no ambiguity exists;
however, if multiple FPLs exist which meet the
criteria of that DLA message, the DLA message will
be rejected.

07 (a) Aircraft Identification Required N123W

This field must contain the 2 to 7 character aircraft DAL32

identification that matches the FPL previously sent. SWA1142

Oblique Stroke Prohibited

(b) Beacon Mode Prohibited
(c) Beacon Code Prohibited

13 (a) Departure Airport Required KORD

LOCID that matches the LOCID previously sent. KFNB

ZZZZ
Note: ERAS does not accept “AFIL” in Field 13a.

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

(b) Time Required

The revised proposed time of departure.

16 (a) Destination Airport Required KLAX

LOCID that matches the LOCID previously sent. ZZZZ

KTLH

(b) Time of Arrival Prohibited

(c) Alternate Airport Prohibited

18 Other Information, DOF/ portion if available, else -0 Required -DOF/121205

The DOF/ sent should match what was previously -0

sent in the FPL (or last CHG that affected the DOF/).
If no DOF/ was included in Field 18 then include -0.

3.4.2 DLA Examples

Following is an example of a DLA message with no message numbers and no previously filed
DOF/.
(DLA-TST003-KBOS1230-KIAD-0)
Note: If a DOF/ is stored in the FPL, use the following format...
(DLA-TST003-KBOS1230-KIAD-DOF/121121)

3.5 Cancellation (CNL) Message

The CNL message is used to cancel a previously filed FPL.

3.5.1 CNL Contents

FAA generally follows ICAO Doc. 4444 with regard to CNL message construction. Table 3-5-1
provides instructions which address FAA-specific content requirements, limitations and
exceptions.
Table 3-5-1. CNL Instructions

Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

3 (a) Message Type Designator Required CNL

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

(b) Optional Message Number Optional OLU/KZLC351

When included:
1. The three-letter NADIN address where the filer
would like the ACK/REJ message sent, followed
by an oblique stroke (XXX/);
2. The four-letter LOCID of the ARTCC to which
the FPL is addressed by the filer (KZXX); and
3. A three-digit sequential message number
assigned by the filer (ddd).

(c) Optional Reference Data Optional POP/KZMA347

When included, the Optional Reference Data should

match the Optional Message Number (Field 3b) of
the FPL message being modified by the CNL. If a
CNL message is submitted without the Optional
Reference Data, the FAA automation system will
attempt to amend that flight if no ambiguity exists;
however, if multiple FPLs exist which meet the
criteria of that CNL message, the CNL message will
be rejected.
7 (a) Aircraft Identification Required N657WT

This field must contain the 2 to 7 character aircraft HAL201

identification that matches the FPL previously sent.

Oblique Stroke Prohibited

(b) Beacon Mode Prohibited
(c) Beacon Code Prohibited

13 (a) Departure Airport Required KSTL

LOCID that matches the LOCID previously sent. KMSY

ZZZZ
Note: ERAS does not accept “AFIL” in Field 13a.

(b) Time Required 2320

The proposed departure time previously sent.

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Required/
Field Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

16 (a) Destination Airport Required KLAS

LOCID that matches the LOCID previously sent. KSUX

ZZZZ

(b) Time of Arrival Prohibited

(c) Alternate Airport Prohibited

18 Other Information, DOF/ portion if available, else -0 Required -DOF/121205

The DOF/ sent should match what was previously -0

sent in the FPL (or last CHG that affected the DOF/).
If no DOF/ was included in Field 18 then include -0.

3.5.2 CNL Examples

Following are examples of a CNL messages.
This is an example of a CNL with no Optional Message Number and no previously filed DOF/:
(CNL-TST004-KJFK1815-KMSP-0)
Note: If a DOF/ is stored in the FPL, use the following format...
(CNL-TST004-KJFK1815-KMSP-DOF/121121)
This is an example using Optional Reference Data (Field 3c), assuming the original FPL had an
Optional Message Number (Field 3b) of ISP/KZNY025:
(CNLISP/KZNY037ISP/KZNY025-TST005-KLGA0845-KDEN-0)

3.6 ACK Responses

There are no ACK messages defined in ICAO Doc. 4444 that allow a receiving ATS unit to
respond to flight planning messages filed without message numbers. FAA has therefore defined
ACK message responses, as outlined in Table 3-6-1. Domestic ERAS systems support use of
ACK responses to FPL, CHG, DLA and CNL messages. If ERAS is able to process the FPL and
determines there are no errors an ACK message will be provided in the following format:

Table 3-6-1 ACK Message Composition

Field Required/
Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

n/a Message Type Required ACK

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Field Required/
Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

n/a Single space character Required

03 (a) Message Type Designator (FPL, Required FPL

CNL, CHG, DLA) of the message CHG
being responded to

03 (b) The FPF supplied Optional Optional /004

Message Number

n/a Receiving unit – Four letter identifier Required -KZDC

of the ARTCC generating the ACK -KZOB

Input message identification:

07 (a) Aircraft Identification Required -AWE603

13 (a) Departure Aerodrome Required -KBWI1230

(b) Estimated Off-Block Time

16 (a) Destination Required -KPHL

Note: If the three-letter NADIN address (Field 3b) is not adapted or not filed, response will be
sent to the AFTN originator address.

3.6.1 Use of Optional Elements in Field 3 (Message Type), to Identify a Filed

Flight Plan (FPL)

FAA’s automation system will accept an Optional Message Number (Field 3b) in an FPL. The
Optional Message Number consists of three parts as defined in section 2.1.7. Also, sections
3.2.1, 3.3.1, 3.4.1 and 3.5.1 show where the element is filed for each message type (FPL, CHG,
DLA, CNL).

When the optional message number is included, the message number is provided in the ACK
message as positive identification of the message being acknowledged.

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3.6.2 Examples of ACK Messages

3.6.2.1 ACK for FPL with Optional Message Number – ACK to Optional NADIN
address vice FPF/AFTN address

US Airways (AFTN address KTULUSAD) filed for America West (NADIN address AWE).
ACK or REJ response will be sent to NADIN address AWE, not AFTN address KTULUSAD.
The complete rules for routing responses are as follows:

1. AFTN originator address must be adapted as answerable in the receiving center, or no

response is provided.
2. If optional NADIN address in ICAO Field 03b is not adapted or not present, response is
sent to AFTN originator.
3. If optional NADIN address is present in Field 03b and is adapted, response is sent to that
address.

Input from US Airways

FF KZDCZQZX
231411 KTULUSAD
(FPLAWE/KZDC004-AWE603-IS
-A319/M-SDIW/C
-KBWI1230
-N0291F090 SWANN3 SWANN V214 DQO DCT
-KPHL0017
-RMK/DVRSN)

Output to AWE (Adapted in NADIN as KPHXAWED)

ACK FPL/004 KZDC AWE603 KBWI 1230 KPHL

3.6.2.2 ACK for FPL without Optional Message Number – ACK to Filer NADIN
address

If there is no Optional Message Number in Field 3b, the Aircraft ID, departure airport, departure
time and destination airport are used to identify the flight.

Input from United Airlines

FF KZDCZQZX
101714 KCHIUALE
(FPL-UAL1447-IS
-A320/M-SDGIRWZ/S
-KIAD2130
-N0360F360 DCT DAILY J61 HUBBS DCT KEMPR DCT ILM
AR21 CRANS FISEL2

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-KFLL0206
-PBN/A1B1C1D1 NAV/RNVD1E2A1)

Output to KCHIUALE

ACK FPL KZDC UAL1447 KIAD 2130 KFLL

3.6.2.3 ACK for CNL with an Optional Message Number

This example shows cancellation by Pope AFB of a previously filed FPL; departure and
destination are both KPOB. The CNL message number is 015 in the Optional Message Data
(Field 3c), and it refers to message number 008 in the Optional Message Number (Field 3b) of
the previous FPL. Note the message number can refer to a NADIN address (POP in this case)
that is the same location as the AFTN originator (KPOBYXYX), so the response is returned to
the originator.

Input from Pope Air Force Base

FF KZDCZQZX
231411 KPOPYXYX
(CNLPOP/KZDC015POP/KZDC008-FRTTN23-KPOB1230-KPHL-0)

Output to POP

ACK CNL/015 KZDC FRTTN23 KPOB 1230 KPHL

3.6.2.4 ACK for CHG filed without an Optional Message Number

If there is no Optional Message Number in Item 3b, the departure time, Aircraft ID, departure
airport, and destination airport are used to identify the FPL; if no duplicate FPL exists, the CHG
message will be acknowledged.

Input from DUATS

FF KZDCZQZX
251201 KIADXCLX
(CHG-N96747-KFDK1400-KDAN-0-15/N0110F080 DCT JYO DCT CSN DCT)

Output to KIADXCLX

ACK CHG KZDC N96747 KFDK 1400 KDAN

3.7 REJ Response

FAA has defined REJ message responses, as outlined in Table 3-7-1. A table defining acronyms
used in reject messages can be found in section 5.1. Domestic ERAS systems support use of

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REJ responses to FPL, CHG, DLA and CNL messages. If ERAS identifies errors in the
processing of a message, a REJ message will be provided in the following format:

Table 3-7-1 REJ Message Composition

Field Required/
Element Optional/ Examples
Prohibited

n/a Message Type Required REJ

n/a Single space character Required

03 (a) Message Type Designator (FPL, Required FPL

CNL, CHG, DLA) of the message CHG
being responded to

03 (b) The FPF supplied Optional Optional /004

Message Number

n/a Receiving unit – Four letter identifier Required -KZDC

of the ARTCC generating the ACK -KZOB

n/a Rejection reason Required See Table 3-7-2 Error

Messages in ERAM and
Host

n/a Input message identification: Required CNL-DAL1964-KDCA2125-

KLGA

(Entire input message)

Note: If the three-letter NADIN address (Field 3b) is not adapted or not filed, response will be
sent to the AFTN originator address.

3.7.1 Examples of REJ Messages

3.7.1.1 REJ for invalid FPL

Field 15a (Cruising Speed) is invalid due to an illegal prefix (K). The REJ identifies the element
and data in error, and provides the entire contents of the erroneous incoming message.

Input from Leesburg Flight Service Station

FF KZDCZQZX
101714 KDCAYFYX

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(FPLDCA/KZDC015-N57FC-IG
-C500/L-SDGWZ/C
-KDAN1530
-K0300F210 DCT FVX DCT
-KCHO0020
-PBN/A1B2B3 NAV/RNVE99 RMK/PTP PATTERN WORK IRMK/FRC)
Output to DCA

REJ FPL/015 KZDC SPD K0300F210 DCT FVX DCT FORMAT

FPLDCA/KZDC015-N57FC-IG-C500/L-SDGW/C-KDAN1530-K0300F210 DCT FVX DCT-
KCHO0020-PBN/A1B2B3 NAV/RNVE99 RMK/PTP PATTERN WORK IRMK/FRC)

3.7.1.2 REJ of CNL with Multiple Flight Plans

An Optional Message Number was not included in the CNL. The CNL will be rejected if more
than one FPL exists with the same ACID, departure airport, EOBT and destination airport.

Input from Delta Airlines

FF KZDCZQZX
231411 KATLDALW
(CNL-DAL1964-KDCA2125-KLGA-0)

Output to KATLDALW
REJ CNL KZDC MULTIPLE FLIGHT PLANS MANUAL COORDINATION REQUIRED
CNL-DAL1964-KDCA2125-KLGA-0

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3.7.2 Reason for a REJ Message

The REJ message generated in response to an erroneous FPL, CNL, CHG or DLA message
provides feedback on the reason for the REJ. Please see Table 5-1-2 for a list of abbreviations
used in REJ messages.

Please see Table 3-7-2 for information on error messages and their resolution. In the table, “[err
data]” is used as a placeholder for actual erroneous data that caused the REJ. For example, “REJ
AID [err data] FORMAT” might result in the actual message “REJ AID T1234567 FORMAT”
(i.e., 8 character AID exceeds the 7 character limit for the AID field).

Table 3-7-2 Error Messages in ERAM and Host

ICAO Error Message & Cause Resolution

Field
Not field- [aircraft id] EXCEEDS ALPHANUMERIC DATABASE Shorten ICAO Field 18 and
specific resubmit.
The total length in characters of all variable-length fields
in a flight plan exceeds the space allocated (approximately
1800 characters). This would most likely be caused by an
excessively long ICAO Field 18.

Not field- MESSAGE TOO SHORT Review the message and

specific ensure that all required fields
The hyphen (“-“) is the field delimiter for ICAO
are included and delimited by
messages. This error is returned is fewer than the
a hyphen.
expected number of hyphens is identified in a message.

Not field- MESSAGE TOO LONG Make sure there is no Field

specific 19 and that no hyphen is used
The hyphen (“-“) is the field delimiter for ICAO
in the text of a field.
messages. This error is returned if more than the expected
number of hyphens is identified in a message. Two likely
causes of this problem are (1) including a Field 19 or (2)
including a hyphen somewhere in Field 18.

Not field- CORRECTION PENDING AT [source] Wait a short time & try the
specific message again.

CHG, CNL or DLA was received for a message currently

being processed by a position at the center.

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Not field- DEPARTURE STRIP PRINTED Call Flight Data at the center
specific & manually coordinate the
change.
Departure strip has printed for a uniquely identified FPL;
users cannot change an FPL once the 1st flight strip has
printed.
Not field- FLIGHT PLAN NOT ORIGINATED FROM THIS Call Flight Data at the center
specific SOURCE & manually coordinate the
change.

Uniquely identified FPL did not originate from the same

source as the entered message.
Field 03 [err data] INVALID RECEIVING FACILITY ID Call Flight Data at the center
to get the correct facility ID
and/or manually coordinate
ARTCC to which the FPL is addressed in Field 3b of an the data.
FPL, CHG, DLA or CNL message received from an
answerable NADIN source does not match the ARTCC
identification.
Field 03 [err data] INVALID REFERENCE NUMBER Call Flight Data at the center
to determine why the FPL is
not stored.
Optional Reference Data in Field 3c of a CHG, DLA or
CNL message does not match Optional Message Number
in Field 3b of the FPL for the referent FPL.
Field 03 [err data] INVALID SENDING FACILITY ID Call Flight Data at the center
to get the correct facility ID
and/or manually coordinate
NADIN address before the oblique stroke (/) in Field 3c the data.
does not match the NADIN address before the “/” in Field
3b of a CNL, CHG or DLA message.
Field 07 AID EXACT DUPLICATE FP IN SYSTEM Call Flight Data at the center
to identify exactly which FPL
you want to change &
Departure Airport, Destination Airport, Departure Time & coordinate the data.
Route Fields all match those of an existing stored FPL.
Field 07 AID [err data] FORMAT If the AID starts with a
number, call Flight Data at
the center. Otherwise, review
Entered aircraft identification does not comply with format requirements &
format requirements for Field 7a. resubmit.
Field 07 AID [err data] INVALID MODIFICATION Submit a CHG that modifies
only Field 7; submit the other
change(s) in a separate
Entered aircraft identification in Field 7a of a CHG message.
message is not the only Field being changed in the
message.

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Field 07 BCN [err data] FORMAT Do not attempt to submit a

beacon code in an FPL or
CHG.
CHG message received via AFTN contains a Field 7c
beacon code change in Field 22.
Field 07 MULTIPLE FLIGHT PLANS MANUAL Call Flight Data at the center
COORDINATION REQUIRED & identify the exact FPL to
be modified.

Identification process for a CHG, DLA or CNL message

has identified more than one FPL.
Field 07 NO FLIGHT PLAN MANUAL COORDINATION Call Flight Data at the center
REQUIRED to determine why the FPL is
not available in the system.

Flight identification in a CHG, DLA or CNL cannot be

matched to an FPL.
Field 08 FLR [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with proper letter
in Field 8a.

Entered flight rules do not comply with format

requirements for Field 8a.
Field 09 ACT [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with proper aircraft
type designator per ICAO
Doc. 8643.
Entered type of aircraft does not comply with format
requirements for Field 9b.
Field 09 ACT [err data] INVALID Resubmit with proper aircraft
type designator per ICAO
Doc. 8643. If problem
FPL message was entered with an aircraft type (Field 9b) persists, contact Flight Data
that is not ZZZZ & is not adapted in the system. The at the center to ensure proper
aircraft type designator must match one in ICAO Doc. interpretation of type
8643. designators.
Field 09 WAK [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with proper wake
turbulence indicator per the
aircraft type in ICAO Doc.
Entered wake turbulence category does not comply with 8643.
format requirements for Field 9c.
Field 09 WAK [err data] INVALID Resubmit with proper wake
turbulence indicator per
aircraft type in ICAO Doc.
Filed Wake Turbulence Category in Field 9c does not 8643. If problem persists,
match Wake Turbulence Category adapted for filed contact Flight Data at the
Aircraft Type in an FPL. center to ensure proper
interpretation of the data.

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Field 10a EQP [err data] EQUIP DESIGNATOR DUPLICATION Remove the duplicate
(ERAM) equipment designator and
resubmit the flight plan.
[err data] FORMAT (HOST)
The same equipment designator was entered more than
once.

Field 10b SRV [err data] EQUIP DESIGNATOR DUPLICATION Remove the duplicate
(ERAM) equipment designator and
resubmit the flight plan.
[err data] FORMAT (HOST)
The same equipment designator was entered more than
once.

Field 10a EQP [err data] INAVLID EQUIP DESIGNATOR Remove or correct the invalid
designator and resubmit the
[err data] FORMAT (HOST)
flight plan.
An invalid equipment designator was entered, e.g. A1

Field 10b SRV [err data] INAVLID EQUIP DESIGNATOR Remove or correct the invalid
(ERAM) designator and resubmit the
flight plan.
[err data] FORMAT (HOST)
An invalid equipment designator was entered, e.g. B3

Field 10a EQP [err data] INVALID EQUIP DESIGNATOR Correct the equipment
COMBINATION (ERAM) designators and resubmit the
flight plan.
[err data] FORMAT (HOST)
An “N” was entered with other designators (when filed, N
must be the only designator filed).

Field 10b SRV [err data] INVALID EQUIP DESIGNATOR Correct the equipment
COMBINATION (ERAM) designators and resubmit the
flight plan.
[err data] FORMAT (HOST)
An “N” was entered with other designators (when filed, N
must be the only designator filed).

Field 10b SRV [err data] INVALID ADS-B EQUIP DESIGNATOR Enter only B1 or B2, U1 or
(ERAM) U2, V1 or V2.
Two designators for the same ADS-B link type were
entered, e.g. B1 and B2.

Field 13 DEP [err data] FORMAT If departure point is not four

letters, use the ZZZZ filing
procedure described earlier.
Entered departure aerodrome does not comply with format
requirements for Field13a.

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Field 13 TIM [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with a correct time

in HHMM format.

Entered proposed departure time (also called off block

time) does not comply with format requirements for Field
13b in an FPL message.
Field 15 RAL [err data] INVALID BLOCKED ALTITUDE Resubmit with a correct
altitude.

In a blocked altitude, the 2nd altitude must be greater than

the 1st altitude.
Field 15 RAL [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with a correct
altitude.

Entered requested altitude does not comply with format

requirements for Field 15b.
Field 15 RTE [causative c4. element] EXCEEDS RACE/ LIMIT Ensure no more than 14 fixes
in the route have an
associated element c4.
Data base allocated for storing Field 15c4 elements into
the Field18 RACE/ indicator is exceeded.
Field 15 RTE FLIGHT DOES NOT ENTER CENTER Ensure FPL enters airspace of
AIRSPACE center to which it was
addressed. In rare cases there
can be disagreement between
For an FPL categorized as “inbound”, a coordination fix is computers if the route barely
not found & boundary penetration is not detected. enters the airspace or if
stratified airspace is present
(usually involving long direct
route segments).
Field 15 RTE [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with the route data
corrected.

A route element of Field 15c in an FPL message violates

the format rules for a route element.
Field 15 RTE [err data] INVALID BLOCKED ALT Resubmit with a correct
altitude in the c4 data.

Cruising level in Field 15c4 contains a blocked altitude &

the 2nd altitude is not greater than the 1st altitude.
Field 15 RTE NO COORDINATION FIX Ensure an airway or direct
route fix is traversed prior to
but within 10 minutes flying
Coordination fix cannot be determined for an FPL time of the center boundary.
categorized as “inbound” (however flight does enter the
center airspace).

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Field 15 RTE [err data] NO ROUTE DATA Resubmit including route

data. Note the minimum route
data possible is DCT (direct
Field 15c (Route Data) is missing in an FPL message. from departure to
destination).
Field 15 RTE TOO MANY ELEMENTS Resubmit with fewer route
elements. If necessary, file
“continuation” FPL with a
Field 15c in an FPL message contains more than the down-route center. A future
maximum number of elements (46); or after Field 10 is ERAM enhancement will
constructed, Field 10 contains more than 48 elements. expand the route capacity to
1,000 characters.
Field 15 SPD [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with a valid
cruising speed.

Entered speed does not comply with format requirements

for Field 15a.
Field 15 SPD [err data] ILLEGAL Resubmit with a valid
cruising speed.

Speed of zero was entered in Field 15a.

Field 15 RTE [err data] ZERO SPEED Resubmit with a valid speed
in the c4 data.

Cruising speed in Field 15c4 contains a zero speed, which

is illegal.
Field 16 ALA [err data] FORMAT If the alternate arrival point is
not four letters, use the ZZZZ
filing procedure described
Entered alternate arrival point(s) does not comply with earlier.
format requirements for Field 16c.
Field 16 DST [err data] FORMAT If the destination is not four
letters, use the ZZZZ filing
procedure described earlier.
Entered destination aerodrome does not comply with
format requirements for Field 16a.
Field 16 ETE [err data] FORMAT Resubmit with a time in
proper HHMM format.

Entered estimated time en route does not comply with

format requirements for Field 16b in an FPL message.
Fields 10 EQP [err data] R PRESENT BUT PBN ABSENT (ERAM If the flight has PBN
and 18 and HOST) capability, add the
appropriate PBN/ entry in
An “R” was filed in Field 10a but there is no PBN/ in
Field 18 (otherwise remove
Field 18
the R from Field 10a)

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Fields 10 EQP [err data] Z PRESENT BUT COM/DAT/NAV A “Z” in Field 10a indicates
and 18 ABSENT (ERAM and HOST) there is COM/, NAV/, or
DAT/ information in Field
A “Z” was filed in Field 10a but there is no COM/, NAV/,
18. Only use a “Z” in 10a
or DAT/ in Field 18.
when one or more of those
indicators are filed in Field
18.

Field 18 PBN [err data] INVALID PBN DATA (ERAM and File only values described in
HOST) the amendment, file no more
than 8 values, and do not
The filed PBN/ contains one or more of the following
include any spaces.
problems:
1. Repeated values,

2. Invalid values,

3. Embedded spaces,

4. Too many (more than 8) values

Field 18 INVALID DATE OF FLIGHT (ERAM and HOST) Do not include DOF/ if filing
only with the FAA. Do not
DOF/ was filed in invalid format, or is outside of the
file flight plans with FAA
permitted time window (i.e. more than 24 hours in the
ATC systems more than 24
future).
hours in advance.

Field 10 EQP/PBN [err data] REQUIRED EQP ABSENT FOR Ensure Field 10 includes the
FILED PBN (ERAM) correct equipment to support
Field 18
the PBN codes that were
A PBN/ code was filed that implies a specific equipage,
filed.
and that equipment code was not found in Field 10. For
example, PBN/ code D2 (RNAV 1 using GNSS) requires
a G be filed in Field 10a.

Field 22 AMD (contents of Field indicator) NO AMENDMENT After field number in Field
DATA 22, ensure there is a slant
followed by the new,
complete contents for the
Amended data was omitted in Field 22b of a CHG indicated Field.
message.

Field 22 DUPLICATE FIELD REFERENCE Ensure a Field number is

included in only one Field 22
of a CHG message.
Same Field reference entered more than once in the same
CHG message.

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Field 22 IND [err data] FORMAT Ensure Field number is 2

digits & one of the Fields
allowed to be amended (i.e.,
Entered field indicator does not comply with format Fields 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16
requirements of Field 22a. or 18).

4. FAA Guidance for Equipment and Capabilities

4.1 Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM)
File RVSM capability as a “W” in Field 10 in accordance with Doc. 4444 and the United States
AIP Section ENR 1.1, paragraph 38.4.2:
38.4.2 The operator will annotate the equipment
block of the FAA or ICAO Flight Plan with an aircraft
equipment suffix indicating RVSM capability only
after the responsible civil aviation authority has
determined that both the operator and its aircraft are
RVSM−compliant and has issued RVSM authorization
to the operator.
Non-RVSM flights authorized for operation in RVSM airspace should follow procedures in the
AIM Section 4.6.10 (also in the AIP section ENR-38.10).
A flight authorized to request Non-RVSM operations in RVSM airspace may file
STS/NONRVSM to indicate this, but filing NONRVSM in STS/ does not substitute for the
coordination required in the AIM and AIP.
Note: STS/NONRVSM should never be filed in combination with a ‘W’ equipment qualifier in
ICAO Field 10a.
Note: A flight that is not authorized for RVSM operations should never file a ‘W’ equipment
qualifier in ICAO Field 10a.

4.2 Navigation Capability

File each of the capabilities in Field 10a per Doc. 4444 as applicable. Filing a capability indicates
that the equipment is installed, serviceable, certified and meets all applicable standards.
Inclusion of a specific capability also implies the crew is trained as required, and any data
required by the airborne system is current and available.

4.3 Communications/Data Link Capability

File each of the following capabilities in Field 10a per Doc. 4444 as applicable:
V- VHF RTF
U- UHF RTF
H- HF RTF
M1-M3- Satellite RTF

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J1-J7- CPDLC
o Note that the FAA uses CPDLC in Oakland Oceanic (KZAK) and New York Oceanic
(KZWY) airspaces only. The applicable capabilities are J5, J6, and J7.
E1-E3- ACARS applications
o The FAA provision of services does not depend on filing of the ACARS capability
items.

4.4 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)

File a “G” in Field 10a if the flight has a capability that meets FAA Advisory Circular 20-138A.
Per Doc. 4444, Augmentation capability (if any) should be filed in Field 18 following NAV/.
The possible augmentation capabilities are described in Doc. 9849 and in Annex 10, Volume 1
but precise filing guidance is not provided in those documents.
Augmentation capability should be filed as required by ANSPs. The FAA at this time has no
requirement for GNSS augmentation information in Field 18.

4.5 Performance Based Navigation

4.5.1 North Atlantic Minimum Navigation Performance Specification (MNPS)

Consistent with Doc. 4444, file an “X” in Field 10a to indicate MNPS capability in accordance
with the guidance in FAA Advisory Circular AC 91-70A and current NOTAMs.

4.5.2 Oceanic RNP10 and 50 NM lateral or 50 NM longitudinal separation

RNP 10 is the minimum navigation specification for the application of 50 NM lateral separation.
Per Doc. 4444, file an “R” in Field 10a and PBN/A1 in Field 18 to indicate RNP 10 capability.
50 NM lateral separation is also applied to aircraft filing PBN/L1 in Field 18 to indicate RNP 4
capability. FAA guidance is in FAA Advisory Circular AC 91-70A, and FAA Order 8400.12.
Note: As of 15 November 2012, for aircraft not authorized RNP 10, existing FAA guidance in
NOTAMs to file STS/NONRNP10 is no longer applicable. STS/ can only contain information
prescribed by Doc. 4444. Instead, file RMK/NONRNP10.

4.5.2.1 Application of 50 NM Longitudinal Separation

For the application of 50 NM longitudinal separation, the FAA requires RNP 10 navigation
capability and FANS 1/A CPDLC and ADS-C capabilities via INMARSAT or IRIDIUM. File
these capabilities as follows:
Per Doc 4444, as of 15 November 2012, file “R” in Field 10a and PBN/A1 in Field 18.
File J5 (INMARSAT) and/or J7 (IRIDIUM) in Field 10a. If so equipped, MTSAT (J6)
can also be filed, however, MTSAT coverage is only available in a portion of Oakland
Oceanic airspace. To indicate FANS 1/A ADS-C capability, file D1 in Field 10b. The
FAA supports only FANS 1/A capability.

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Note: HF Data Link (J2) is not considered adequate for the application of 50 NM longitudinal
separation. The FAA does not currently support ATN capability (J1) and VHF Data Link (VDL)
is not an Oceanic operations system (J3-J4).
Note: Advisory Circulars can be found at the following web site:
http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/
Note: Current NOTAMs can be found at the following web site:
http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/notices/

4.5.3 Oceanic RNP4 and 30/30 separation

For the application of 30 NM lateral and 30 NM longitudinal separation, the FAA requires RNP
4 navigation capability and FANS 1/A CPDLC and ADS-C capabilities via INMARSAT or
IRIDIUM. See FAA Advisory Circular AC 91-70A and FAA Order 8400.33. File these
capabilities as follows:
Per Doc 4444, as of November15, 2012, file “R” in Field 10a and PBN/L1 in Field 18 to
indicate Oceanic RNP 4 capability.
File J5 (INMARSAT) and/or J7 (IRIDIUM) in Field 10a. If so equipped, MTSAT (J6)
can also be filed, however, MTSAT coverage is only available in a portion of Oakland
Oceanic airspace.
To indicate FANS 1/A ADS-C capability, file D1 in Field 10b. The FAA supports only
FANS 1/A capability.
Note: HF Data Link (J2) is not considered adequate for the application of 30 NM lateral and
longitudinal separation. The FAA does not currently support ATN capability (J1) and VHF Data
Link (VDL) is not an Oceanic operations system (J3-J4).

4.5.4 Domestic Area Navigation (RNAV) Capability

Area Navigation capability in accordance with AC 90-45A, Approval of Area Navigation
Systems for Use in the U.S. National Airspace System, is required for assignment of RNAV
routes that do not have performance requirements.
To indicate Area Navigation capability as defined by AC 90-45A file “RNVE99” following the
NAV/ indicator in Field 18. Also see Section 4.5.7 for more detailed information on the NAV/
information format for FAA.
Note: There is no ICAO PBN/ equivalent to this capability.

4.5.5 Domestic U.S. RNAV 1 Capability

RNAV 1 capability IAW Advisory Circular (AC) 90-100A, U.S. Terminal and En Route Area
Navigation (RNAV) Operations is required for assignment of RNAV Standard Instrument
Departures (SID) and Standard Terminal Arrivals (STAR).
File the RNAV capability in accordance with FAA Order 7110.10, section 6-2-3. The full syntax
rules for filing this capability are also described in Section 4.5.7 below.

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4.5.6 Domestic U.S. RNP Capability

FAA requirements for filing RNP capability are not yet defined. File “R” in Field 10a and the
appropriate PBN/ information in Field 18 as specified in Doc. 4444 and as required by other
ANSPs.

4.5.7 General Specification of RNAV Capability for FAA domestic route

assignment
For the complete specification of RNAV format for aircraft operating within U.S. domestic
airspace please reference AIM Sections 4-7-8 and 5-1-9.

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5. Reference Material
5.1 Acronyms
The following acronyms are used throughout this Reference Guide.
Table 5-1-1. Acronyms

Term Description

AC Advisory Circular

ACK Acknowledgement Message

AFTN Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network

AIP Aeronautical Information Publication

ANSP Air Navigation Service Provider

ARTCC Air Route Traffic Control Center

ATC Air Traffic Control

ATS Air Traffic Service

CDM Collaborative Decision Making

CDR Coded Departure Routes

CHG Modification Message

CNL Cancellation Message

DLA Delay Message

DP Departure Procedure

EET Estimated Elapsed Time

ERAS En Route Automation System

FAA Federal Aviation Administration

FAAO FAA Order

FIR Flight Information Region

FP Domestic Flight Plan IAW FAA Form 7233-1 (non-ICAO)

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Term Description

FPL Filed Flight Plan

IAW In Accordance With

ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization

LOCID Location Identifier

NADIN National Data Interchange Network

NAR North Atlantic Route

NAS National Airspace System

NAVAID Navigational Aid

NFDC National Flight Data Center

NM Nautical Mile(s)

PBN Performance Based Navigation

PTP Point-to-Point

REJ Rejection Message

RNAV Area Navigation

RNP Required Navigation Performance

RVSM Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum

SID Standard Instrument Departure

STAR Standard Terminal Arrival Route

VOR VHF (Very High Frequency) Omni directional Range

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Table 5-1-2 Abbreviations Used in REJ Messages

Field 7a AID Aircraft Identification

Field 7c BCN Beacon Code

Field 8a FLR Flight Rules

Field 8b FLT Type of Flight

Field 9a ACT Type of Aircraft

Field 9c WAK Wake Turbulence Category

Field 10a EQP Communications & Navigation Equipment

Field 10b SRV Surveillance Equipment

Field 13a DEP Departure Aerodrome

Field 13b TIM Departure Time

Field 15a SPD Cruising Speed

Field 15b RAL Requested Altitude

Field 15c RTE Route

Field 16a DST Destination Aerodrome

Field 16b ETE Estimated Time En route

Field 16c ALA Alternate Aerodrome

Field 18 OTH Other Information

Field 22 AMD Amended Data

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5.2 References
The following are references for information in this Reference Guide.
Table 5-2. References

Reference Relevancy to ICAO Internet Availability

FPL filing:

ICAO Procedures Describes ICAO http://www.icao.int

for Air Navigation standards for FPL,
Services – Air CHG, DLA, and CNL
Traffic Management messages and their use.
(PANS-ATM),
Document 4444

Aeronautical Describes FAA http://www.faa.gov/atpubs/

Information exceptions to ICAO
Publication (AIP) Doc. 4444.
Describes when FAA
expects a legacy
domestic format or
ICAO-format FPL to be
used.

International Flight Provides instructions for http://www.faa.gov/ats/aat/ifim/

Information Manual completing FAA Form
(IFIM) 7233-4, International
Flight Plan.

Aeronautical Describes basic flight http://www.faa.gov/atpubs/

Information Manual information and ATC
(AIM) procedures for use in
the U.S. National
Airspace System.

FAAO 7210.3, Describes the Air http://www.faa.gov/atpubs/

Facility Operation Carrier Interface
and Administration Program for filing
domestic format FPLs
over NADIN.

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Reference Relevancy to ICAO Internet Availability

FPL filing:

FAAO 7350.7, Defines valid fix http://www.faa.gov/atpubs/

Location Identifiers identifiers for
NAVAIDs, waypoints,
intersections, etc.,
which can be filed in
FPLs.

Advisory Circulars Defines requirements http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/

for filing certain
capabilities or
exceptions.

Notices to Airmen Defines requirements http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/notices/

for filing certain
capabilities or
exceptions.

RVSM Guidance Defines requirements http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ato/ser

vice_units/enroute/rvsm/drvsm/
for filing certain
information relative to
RVSM capability.

Oceanic and Defines requirements http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ato/ser

vice_units/enroute/oceanic/
Offshore Operations for filing information
relative to
equipment/capability
for operations in FAA-
controlled Oceanic
airspace.

5.3 ARTCC Four-letter Location Identifiers

Table 5-3 ARTCC Four-letter Location Identifiers for Domestic ICAO FPL Field 3b/c

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Field 3b/c Four-letter AFTN

ARTCC Name Notes
Location Identifier Address

KZCAZQZX Requires border coordination –

Albuquerque
KZCA* will change to KZAB on
(ZAB)
January 26, 2009

Chicago (ZAU) KZAU KZAUZQZX

Boston (ZBW) KZBW KZBWZQZX

Washington (ZDC) KZDC KZDCZQZX

Denver (ZDV) KZDV KZDVZQZX

Fort Worth (ZFW) KZFW KZFWZQZX

KZCHZQZX Requires border coordination –

Houston (ZHU) KZCH* will change to KZHU on
January 26, 2009

Indianapolis (ZID) KZID KZIDZQZX

Jacksonville (ZJX) KZJX KZJXZQZX

Kansas City (ZKC) KZKC KZKCZQZX

KZCLZQZX Requires border coordination –

Los Angeles (ZLA) KZCL* will change to KZLA on
January 26, 2009

Salt Lake (ZLC) KZLC KZLXZQZX

Miami (ZMA) KZMA KZMAZQZX

Memphis (ZME) KZME KZMEZQZX

Minneapolis (ZMP) KZMP KZMPZQZX

New York (ZNY) KZNY KZNYZQZX

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Field 3b/c Four-letter AFTN

ARTCC Name Notes
Location Identifier Address

Oakland (ZOA) KZOA KZOAZQZX

Cleveland (ZOB) KZOB KZOBZQZX

Seattle (ZSE) KZSE KZSEZQZX

Atlanta (ZTL) KZTL KZTLZQZX

*Location identifiers (KZCA, KZCH, and KZCL) shall not be filed anywhere other than in
Fields 3b/c of a U.S. domestic ICAO flight planning message.

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Attachment 1. Route (Field 15) Additions

Field 15b – Level
Some non-ICAO altitude formats are permissible in Field 15b for FPLs with routes of flight
entirely in U.S. domestic airspace. These are described below. Do not use these formats in
an International FPL.

Item 15, Field 15b, Level – The following non-ICAO altitude formats are permissible in
Field 15b of a Domestic IFR FPL. Do not use these formats in an international FPL:

OTP – “OTP/” followed by the requested altitude.

Example: OTP/125

Block Altitude – in the format “dddBddd” where the first “ddd” is the lowest altitude in
the block and the second “ddd” is the highest altitude in the block

Example: 210B290

Note: Information in this Field should reflect the requested “Initial Cruise Altitude,” which
is defined as the first planned en route altitude, determined without regard to intermediate
level-offs due to airway, or airspace strata, or ATC departure procedures. This may be the
final requested altitude, or an altitude associated with a filer planned step climb level-off.
Field 15c – Route
Some non-ICAO route elements are permissible in Field 15c for FPLs with routes of flight
entirely in U.S. domestic airspace. These are described below. Do not use these formats in
an International FPL.

Item 15, Field 15c, Route – The following non-ICAO route elements are permissible in Field
15c for Domestic FPL. Do not use these formats in an international FPL:
Delay at a fix may be requested using the format “FIX/Dh+mm”
Example: KORRY/D0+25

Coded Route Re-entry Indicator using the format “Route+Rd”

Example: IR107+R1

Most U.S. domestic Departure Procedures (DPs) have a coded designator published in a
Terminal Procedure Publication. Include the coded designator, if one exists, as the first
element in Field 15c. Follow any instructions in the published DP regarding whether and
how to file the route in a flight plan.

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Route-to-Route Transition: When a transition is planned between two (2) routes in U.S.
domestic airspace, the point of transition should normally be inserted in Field 15c. The point
of transition may be omitted in the following cases:
When filing published Preferred Routes (NDFC Preferred Routes Database2) or Coded
Departure Routes (CDM Operational Coded Departure Routes3); and
When the intersection between the two (2) routes is unambiguous but not published.

When omitting the point of transition in the portion of the route in U.S. domestic airspace,
file the two (2) route names separated by a space. Transition between any combinations of
the following types of routes will be supported:
Published High altitude airways (J- or Q-Routes); Published Low altitude airways (V- or
T-Routes); and
Radial Routes.

Note: Do not use this format/convention in the portion of the route outside domestic U.S.
unless directed by the appropriate ANSP.

Do not use this convention for transition between any combinations of the following types of
routes:
SIDs;
STARs;
Atlantic Routes;
Aerial Refueling Routes;
Military IFR and VFR training routes (IR and VR routes);
LF/MF “colored” airways (e.g., Amber airways, Blue airways); and
North Atlantic Routes (NAR).

Table 1-1 provides examples of acceptable Field 15c entries for route-to-route transitions in
U.S. domestic airspace:

Table 1-1 Route-to-Route Transition Examples

2
Access the NDFC Preferred Routes Database at “http://www.fly.faa.gov/rmt/nfdc_preferred_routes_database.jsp”
3
Access the CDM Operational Coded Departure Routes at
http://www.fly.faa.gov/rmt/cdm_operational_coded_departur.jsp”

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Type(s) of
Route as filed in ICAO
Route Route as published*
Field 15c
Transition

Coded swap route MVYCLTT7 (KMVY to DCT SEY DCT HTO

Jet airway to MCLT): J174 ORF J121 J4
jet airway FLO HUSTN1
KMVY SEY HTO J174 ORF J121 J4
FLO HUSTN1 KCLT

Published IFR Preferred Route KCLE to DCT DJB DJB200

Radial route to KAPF: APE021 APE J186
radial route & J91 ATL J89 J75
jet airway to KCLE DJB DJB200 APE021 APE J186
TEPEE ZEILR1
J91 ATL J89 J75 TEPEE ZEILR1
jet airway
KAPF

Published IFR Preferred Route KBDR to DCT BEADS CCC148

KMCO: J174 SWL DCT CEBEE
Radial route to DCT WETRO DCT ILM
jet airway KBDR BEADS CCC148 J174 SWL
AR15 HIBAC CWRLD1
CEBEE WETRO ILM AR15 HIBAC
CWRLD1 KMCO

Victor airway Published IFR Preferred Route KAJO to DCT PDZ V186 V66
to victor KMYF: MZB
airway KAJO PDZ V186 V66 MZB KMYF

Field 15c1, Standard Departure Route

File a published Standard Departure Route in Field 15c1 of an FPL. FAA departure (and
arrival) routes are available at http://aeronav.faa.gov/index.asp?xml=aeronav/applications/d_tpp.
Field 15c2 – ATS route
File published ATS Route designators in Field 15c2 of an FPL.
Field 15c3 – Significant point
A significant point can be expressed in any of the following formats:
Fix or NAVAID ID: 2-5 character ID as published in FAAO 7350.8 (which is available
at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs). ERAS checks both the format and validity of a Fix or
NAVAID ID within 50 nautical miles (NM) of U.S. domestic airspace; outside of this
airspace only the format of the ID is checked.
Fix Radial Distance: 2-5 character Fix or NAVAID ID, followed by a three digit
direction in degrees magnetic, followed by 3 digits in NM.
Latitude/Longitude (Lat/Long)

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o 2 digits Lat. in degrees, followed by N or S, followed by 3 digits Long. in

degrees, followed by E or W.
o 4 digits Lat. in degrees and minutes, followed by N or S, followed by 5 digits
Long. in degrees and minutes, followed by E or W.
Note: ERAS accepts a different Lat/Long format for non-ICAO domestic flight plans
(e.g., ddN/dddW, dd/ddd). Do not use that format in an FPL.
Field 15c4 – Change of speed or level
Entries in Field 15c4 for change of speed or level at a point are accepted by ERAS but not
processed. Be aware of the caution in the AIP, En Route, paragraph 31.6, which reads:
31.6 “Cleared to (destination) airport as filed,” does NOT include the en route altitude
filed in a flight plan. An en route altitude will be stated in the clearance or the pilot will
be advised to expect an assigned/filed altitude within a given time frame or at a certain
point after departure. This may be done verbally in the departure instructions or stated in
the DP.
Note: For processing purposes and controller displays, ERAS uses only the speed and
altitude information filed as the first element in Field 15 (i.e. Initial Cruise). This element
should reflect data at the requested “Initial Cruise Altitude,” which is defined as the first
planned en route altitude, determined without regard to intermediate level-offs due to airway,
or airspace strata, or ATC departure procedures. This may be the final requested altitude, or
an altitude associated with a filer planned step climb level-off.

Field 15c5 – Change of flight rules (Composite Flights)

ERAS will not accept an FPL containing “IFR” in a route portion within U.S. domestic
airspace in Field 15c. If you plan to change flight rules within U.S. domestic airspace during
your flight (i.e., VFR then IFR, or IFR then VFR), ensure you file the VFR portion of the
flight IAW FAAO 7110.10 and the IFR portion of your flight IAW this document.
Note: ERAS accepts “IFR” if included in a route portion outside of U.S. domestic
airspace.
Note: While ERAS does not accept metric speed and altitude in Fields 15a and 15b, they
are accepted in Field 15c4.
Field 15c6 – Cruise Climb
ERAS will accept an FPL containing a cruise climb request if the climb is outside of U.S.
domestic airspace. FAA does not provide for cruise climb clearances in U.S. domestic
airspace.

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Attachment 2. Other Information (Item 18) Additions

1. Standard Other Information Indicators

ERAS accepts all Item 18 indicators defined in ICAO Doc. 4444 in any order but filers are urged
to file in the order specified in Doc. 4444. Some ANSPs may truncate Field 18, and the order
specified reflects the importance of the information. Per Amendment 1, some ANSPs may
enforce the correct order.

Any indicator not defined in ICAO Doc. 4444 should not be used, except those published in
Regional Supplementary Procedures (Doc. 7030) or an AIP. See item 4 below for additional
details.

File only one instance of each indicator. Multiple instances of an indicator (e.g. RMK/TEXT
RMK/OTHER TEXT) may cause rejection of the flight plan (will vary by ANSP). FAA systems
will accept multiple indicators but combine them into one instance.

Table 2-1 outlines rules for ERAS acceptance of each ICAO-defined indicator.

The first column lists the indicators.

The second column describes the FAA requirements for filing the indicator. Note that these
reflect the FAA requirements. International flights need to be aware of any other ANSP
requirements with respect to Field 18. The FAA ERAS should accept information filed in
these indicators for other ANSPs.
The third column provides any applicable references.
The fourth column provides examples for each indicator.

Table 2-1. ERAS Rules for Acceptance of ICAO Item 18 Indicators

Indicator FAA Requirements References Examples

STS/ Include values per Doc. 4444. See details of STS/STATE

when to use each in table 2-2 below. STS/HOSP
STS/STATE NONRVSM

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Indicator FAA Requirements References Examples

PBN/ Include A1 for RNP10 and L1 for RNP4 as FAA AC PBN/A1B4B6L1O1S2T

described in Sections 4.5.2 and 4.5.3 above. 91-70A 2
PBN/A1L1
Include other entries as defined in ICAO Doc. FAA Order
4444 and required by other ANSPs. 8400.12
Note: The FAA will use information in NAV/ FAA Order
to determine eligibility for RNAV 1 routes, not 8400.33
the information in PBN/. However other
ANSPs will likely use the PBN/ information.

NAV/ Include domestic RNAV capability when NAV/RNVD1E2A1

applicable, per Sections 4.5.4 and 4.5.5 above. NAV/RNVE2
United
Note: Requires a ‘Z’ in Field 10a. States AIP, NAV/RNVE99
ENR 1.10
Section 12

COM/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444

any information to be filed in COM/.
Note: Requires a ‘Z’ in Field 10a.

DAT/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444

any information to be filed in DAT/.
Note: Requires a ‘Z’ in Field 10a.

SUR/ Flights that comply with FAA CFR Doc. 4444 SUR/260B
requirements for ADS-B (RTCA DO-260B or SUR/260B 282B
RTCA DO
DO-282B) should file SUR/260B for 1090ES 260B
capability, and SUR/282B for UAT capability.
Note that no SUR/ entry is necessary for other FAA AIM
ADS-B equipment (e.g. 260A or 282A
equipment)

DEP/ If ZZZZ is filed in Field 13, include the Doc. 4444 DEP/S20
departure point as follows: DEP/MD21
FAA Doc.
1. If there is a location identifier for the 7350.8 DEP/JACOX
airport but it is not four letters (e.g. it ICAO Doc. DEP/ERI090012
includes numerals), include only the 7910
location identifier as published in FAA
Doc. 7350.8.
2. If there is no location identifier, include a
significant point as described in Doc. 4444
(fix name, fix/radial/distance, or Lat/Lon).

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Indicator FAA Requirements References Examples

DEST/ If ZZZZ is filed in Field 16, include the Doc. 4444 DEST/S20
destination as follows DEST/MD21
FAA Doc.
1. If there is a location identifier for the 7350.8 DEST/JACOX
airport (but it is not four letters), include ICAO Doc. DEST/ERI090012
only the location identifier as published in 7910
FAA Doc. 7350.8.
2. If there is no location identifier, include a
significant point as described in Doc. 4444
(fix name, fix/radial/distance, or Lat/Lon).

DOF/ The FAA has no requirements for DOF/. Doc. 4444 DOF/111024

The FAA ERAS does not support filing more (i.e., October 24,
than 24 hours in advance. Flight Plans with a 2011)
DOF/ more than 24 hours in advance are
subject to rejection.
Flight plans filed within 24 hours of proposed
departure should not contain a DOF/, but
inclusion is permissible.
Note that filers using a flight planning service
may already have the ability to file more than a
day in advance. Any such existing capabilities
will be unaffected; they already hold flight
plans and submit to the ERAS at an
appropriate time.

REG/ File when the callsign is not the registration Global REG/N23721
number as indicated in ICAO Doc. 4444. Operational
Data Link
This information is used for monitoring, and is
Document
important to include when relevant.
(GOLD),
Doc. 7030
Note: REG/ number is required for all RVSM NAM,
flights. NAT, and
PAC
Note: REG/ number is required for flights regions
through oceanic airspace that desire CPDLC
or ADS-C services.
Note: REG/ number is required for all flights
intending to operate in the North Atlantic
(NAT) Region.

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Indicator FAA Requirements References Examples

EET/ Information after EET/ must contain the FIR United EET/KZMA1234
identifier from ICAO Doc. 7910 of each FIR States AIP
boundary crossed and the estimated time to GEN 1.7
that boundary. See Section 2.1, Initial FPL ICAO Doc.
Filing, above. 7910
Note: This information is important for
international flights. It is not required for
domestic flights.

SEL/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 SEL/CKAS
any information to be filed in SEL/. Filing of FAA JO
SELCAL code in SEL is recommended as 7110.65
good practice when applicable as it can be para. 10-4-
used for contingencies even in airspace where 4
HF is not a primary means of communication.

TYP/ If ZZZZ is filed in Field 9, include a Doc. 4444 TYP/EXPERIMENTAL

description of the type of aircraft when there is Doc. 8643 TYP/2F16 2K35R
no type designator in ICAO Doc. 8643, or
there is a formation flight with multiple aircraft
types.

CODE/ File the aircraft’s Mode S address, when one Doc. 4444 CODE/23A16C
has been assigned. This information will be FAA AIM
used to pair ADS-B surveillance reports to a
flight plan.
The information should be filed as six
hexadecimal digits.

DLE/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 DLE/VSA0130
any information to be filed in DLE/.
The FAA can accept DLE/ information, but it
is not processed or presented to controllers.
Do not use DLE/ for fixes in U.S. airspace at
this time.

OPR/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 OPR/FLEXJET
any information to be filed in OPR/.

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 FAA ICAO Flight Planning Interface Reference Guide

Indicator FAA Requirements References Examples

ORGN/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 ORGN/EDDTBERX
any information to be filed in ORGN/.

PER/ Speeds are Indicated Air Speed at runway Doc. 8168 PER/C
threshold for an arriving aircraft:
A less than 91 knots IAS
B at least 91 and less than 121 knots IAS
C at least 121 and less than 141 knots IAS
D at least 141 and less than 166 knots IAS
E greater than 166 and less than 211 knots IAS
H Helicopters

The FAA currently has no requirements for

any information to be filed in PER/.

Note: The ERAS will enforce the Doc. 4444

requirements for this field- PER/, if filed, must
contain one letter, being one of the valid codes
described in Doc. 8168.

ALTN/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 ALTN/5AR2
any information to be filed in ALTN/.

RALT/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 RALT/KEWR KRDU
any information to be filed in RALT/. KTPA

TALT/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 TALT/KEWR
any information to be filed in TALT/.

RIF/ The FAA currently has no requirements for Doc. 4444 RIF/ESP G94 CLA
any information to be filed in RIF/. APPH

RMK/ Any FAA guidance that instructs filing of Doc. 4444 RMK/NRP
information in “Remarks” should be filed in an RMK/PTP
United
FPL after RMK/. States AIP RMK/CDR CAPABLE
See “Filing Remarks”, below. United RMK/ADCUS NO STAR
States AIM

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2. Reasons for Special Handling (STS/)

ICAO Doc. 4444 defines a set of 13 possible “reasons for special handling”. Some of these
reasons conflict with current FAA practices and others are not relevant to current FAA practice
(i.e. there is no equivalent filing). The following table indicates the recommended filing
practices for these items.

Table 2-2. Filing Reason for Special Handling with the FAA

STS/ Item FAA Requirements Flight Planning References

ALTRV Follow all current procedures for ALTRVs. Military Flight Data Telecommunications
(Army Regulation 95–11, AFR 11-213,
Optionally file ALTRV in STS/ to indicate
OPNAVINST 3722.8L)
intention to operate in an ALTRV, however
including this item will not be cause for National SAR Supplement (available at
special handling and does not substitute for http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg5/cg534/SAR_Manuals.asp
any existing requirements for coordination.

ATFMX File only as required by other ANSPs. The N/A

FAA will make no use of this item.

FFR Follow all current procedures for N/A

coordination of Fire Fighting flights. RBA
Check PCG (see STATE wording below)
Optionally include this item to indicate
involvement in firefighting, however
including this item will not be cause for
special handling and does not substitute for
any existing requirements for coordination.

HEAD Follow all current procedures for N/A

coordination of Head of State flights.
Optionally include this item as appropriate,
however including this item will not be
cause for special handling and does not
substitute for any existing requirements for
coordination.

HUM Follow all current procedures for N/A

coordination of Humanitarian flights.
Optionally include this item as appropriate,
however including this item will not be
cause for special handling and does not
substitute for any existing requirements for
coordination.

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STS/ Item FAA Requirements Flight Planning References

MARSA Follow all current procedures for flights Military Flight Data Telecommunications
that expect to declare MARSA. (Army Regulation 95–11, AFR 11-213,
OPNAVINST 3722.8L)
Include MARSA in STS/ in an international
flight plan in lieu of MARSA in remarks. If
additional information is required, file them
in RMK/. For example:
STS/MARSA RMK/MARSA WITH ZAPP21

MARSA may still be filed in remarks of a

domestic flight plan.
Note that including MARSA in STS/ will
not be cause for special handling and does
not substitute for any existing requirements
for declaration of MARSA.

STATE Follow all current procedures for law FAA Pilot Controller Glossary (PCG) in
enforcement and military flights. the AIM
Optionally include this item for flights that (available at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs)
meet the definition of State Aircraft in the
Pilot/Controller Glossary. However
including this item will not be cause for
special handling and does not substitute for
any existing requirements for coordination.

FLTCK File FLTCK in STS/ of an ICAO flight plan Order JO 7110.65

or in the remarks section of a domestic
(available at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs)
flight plan.
If a fix and action need to be specified put
that information in RMK/.

HAZMAT Include HAZMAT when carrying CFR Part 175

hazardous materials per CFR Part 175, or
AF Joint Instr. 11-204
when instructed to include remarks in a
flight plan pertaining to hazardous Army Reg. 95-27
materials.

HOSP File HOSP for a medical flight that does United States AIM Section 4-2-4
not meet the criteria for MEDEVAC. No
United States AIP GEN 3.4
operational priority is given solely due to
filing of HOSP; any priority must be (available at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs)
requested.

MEDEVAC File MEDEVAC for a life-critical medical United States AIM Section 4-2-4
emergency flight. Operational priority will
United States AIP GEN 3.4
be given to MEDEVAC flights.
(available at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs)
Note: Use of MEDEVAC replaces previous
use of the term “Lifeguard”. Many
documents and procedures need to be
updated to reflect this.

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 FAA ICAO Flight Planning Interface Reference Guide

STS/ Item FAA Requirements Flight Planning References

NONRVSM File NONRVSM in STS/ when the flight is

eligible for NONRVSM operations in
United States AIM, Section 6
RVSM airspace per the guidance in AIM
Section 6. United Stated AIP ENR 1.1 Paragraphs
38.3, 38.10
Note that including NONRVSM does not
substitute for any required coordination (available at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs)
with ATC described in the AIM.

SAR Follow all current procedures for Search United States AIM, Section 6-2-5
and Rescue operations.
(available at http://www.faa.gov/atpubs)
Optionally include this item for
informational purposes when appropriate.
Inclusion of SAR in STS/ does not
substitute for any current requirements for
coordination with FAA Air Traffic Control.

3. Filing Remarks with the FAA (RMK/)

As indicated above, all FAA instructions to file information in Remarks should be considered to
apply to RMK/ in Field 18 of an ICAO flight plan. As stated in the AIM, the FAA instructs
filers to “Enter only those remarks pertinent to ATC or to the clarification of other flight plan
information”.
Remarks to be filed for specific purposes are directed in the AIM, the AIP, various Advisory
Circulars and NOTAMs. All of these items apply to RMK/ in an ICAO flight plan.

4. Non-Standard Other Information Indicators

With the advent of Amendment 1, non-standard indicators in Field 18 are strongly discouraged if
not banned outright, and in particular, “reasons for special handling” are mandated to be filed in
STS/ or, if no appropriate code exists there, in RMK/.
Therefore no non-standard indicators should be filed in Field 18 except for limited cases that are
documented in Doc. 7030 or an AIP.
The known non-standard indicators right now include:
1. RVR/, defined by Eurocontrol. RVR/ contains a 3-digit Runway Visual Range expressed
in meters.
2. RFP/, defined by Eurocontrol. RFP/ contains a replacement flight plan number (a type of
version number).
3. IRMK/, defined by the FAA. IRMK/ is used only to identify FRC (Full Route Clearance)
is necessary for the subject flight.

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