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Originally posted by DelayedReaction
He had a choice? The guy was in contact with air traffic control the entire time, and was probably told to continue on his path. Given the number of aircraft in the air at one time, pilots pretty much do what they're told.
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Nope. I'm a pilot. (Private/Instrument Rating) You ALWAYS have a choice. If you're on a flight plan, you can cancel it or change it in the air. If there's an equipment malfunction of any kind, or you just don't feel happy about what ATC is telling you, then say "(callsign) is declaring an emergency" and ATC will give you anything that you ask for. They might ask you why afterwards, but while you are in the air.
Quote:
<i>from the Federal Aviation Regulations:</i>
§91.3 Responsibility and authority of the pilot in command.
(a) The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft.
(b) In an in-flight emergency requiring immediate action, the pilot in command may deviate from any rule of this part to the extent required to meet that emergency.
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While you are in the air, you have absolute authority to overrule ATC if it affects safety.