Understanding the difference between "Cleared as Filed" and "Expected Route" is essential for interpreting ATC communications and notifications provided in ForeFlight. Below is an explanation of each term and how they relate to flight planning.
Cleared as Filed
This term indicates that ATC has approved the routing as it appears in the initially filed flight plan or as later amended. It represents the official routing the pilot is expected to fly and is an ATC-specific function. "Cleared as Filed" does not refer to any prior notifications or advisories.
Expected Route
This term refers to a notification provided by ForeFlight when ATC systems share a likely routing for the flight. While helpful for planning purposes, the Expected Route is advisory and may differ from the filed flight plan. Accepting the Expected Route in ForeFlight Mobile updates the flight plan within the app to reflect the expected performance numbers but does not amend the filed plan with ATC.
If ATC issues a clearance of "Cleared as Filed," the initially filed flight plan is the one to follow, regardless of any Expected Route notifications.
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