What is the difference between Change of Destination (COD) and Alternate Destination handling in Radar Contact?
Planned Alternate = Normal Operations Change Of Destination = Irregular Operations Alternates are planned to comply with Federal Air Regulations (FARs) for weather and/or company operational requirements. In the situation where more than one alternate is planned the fuel is calculated to the more distant of the two alternates. Change Of Destination may be used in a situation that doesnt quite qualify as an emergency but requires a landing at an airport other than the planned alternate or the intended destination. An example scenario: Youre enroute and the aircraft starts exhibiting signs of unusual airframe vibrations. Aircraft control remains normal. Rather than waiting for the situation to escalate to an emergency situation you and your first officer elect to land at the nearest suitable airport for inspection. The COD function in radar contact is perfectly suited for this type of scenario. Of course, if things do take a turn for the worse during descent you can always declare an eme
