Which actions are required if a re-route or altitude change will add more than 15 minutes to the Estimate Time Enroute (ETE) or compromise reserve fuel?

Which actions are required if a re-route or altitude change will add more than 15 minutes to the Estimate Time Enroute (ETE) or compromise reserve fuel?

• A. Dispatcher must be contacted and Captain and Dispatcher must agree on the course of action
• B. Dispatcher must be contacted
• C. Captain and Dispatcher must agree on the course of action
• D. The flight must be cancelled

Answer: (A)

When a re-routing or altitude change would add more than 15 minutes to the estimated time en route or would compromise reserve fuel, the flight crew must involve operations control and get a joint decision. The dispatcher is responsible for the flight plan, fuel calculations, and release, so their involvement is essential. The captain retains the authority to ensure safety, but company procedure requires that the captain and dispatcher agree on the revised course of action before proceeding. This coordination ensures the flight remains compliant with fuel requirements and operating procedures.

When a re-routing or altitude change would add more than 15 minutes to the estimated time en route or would compromise reserve fuel, the flight crew must involve operations control and get a joint decision. The dispatcher is responsible for the flight plan, fuel calculations, and release, so their involvement is essential. The captain retains the authority to ensure safety, but company procedure requires that the captain and dispatcher agree on the revised course of action before proceeding. This coordination ensures the flight remains compliant with fuel requirements and operating procedures.