Flight following system; requirements

This regulation applies to Part 121 carriers conducting supplemental operations (like charter flights) that use a flight following system. The carrier must demonstrate two key capabilities:

First, the system must have sufficient facilities and personnel to provide necessary flight information to both the flight crew and the people responsible for operational control of the aircraft. This ensures everyone involved has the data needed to safely conduct each flight.

Second, the system must be able to track each flight's progress through communication methods like telephone, telegraph, or radio. This includes monitoring departures, arrivals, intermediate stops, diversions, and any maintenance delays that occur.

Additionally, the carrier must prove that all personnel involved in the flight following system and operational control functions are capable of performing their assigned duties. This ensures the system isn't just on paper—the people operating it are actually qualified to do their jobs effectively.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*