Why file an ICAO Flight Plan (FPL)?
• On June 29, 2008, the FAA implemented a change in all en route Host computer systems that automatically assigns preferential routes based on the equipment and capabilities filed in the ICAO FPL. • This change was made to facilitate the transition from the current Host system to the new En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) system. ERAM will replace current Host systems at the 20 domestic Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) beginning in early 2009. • Although both Host and ERAM will continue to accept and process traditional NAS flight plans (FP), these flight plans will not qualify for assignment of RNAV departure and/or arrival routes. Flight plans filed in NAS format will, however, still qualify for automatic assignment of conventional (non-RNAV) departures and arrivals. What is ERAM? • En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) is the largest National Airspace System (NAS) equipment replacement program in FAA history • ERAM replaces 20 Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTC
