Flightroutes

Flightroutes are planned paths that aircraft follow between origin and destination, designed to maximize safety, efficiency, and orderly use of airspace. A route typically consists of an en-route segment connected to departure and arrival procedures, and may include a series of waypoints, airways, and altitude assignments. In many cases routes pass through predefined corridors called ATS routes; for international or oceanic travel, routes may be defined as tracks instead of fixed airways. Depending on the airspace and equipment, modern flights can fly direct segments or curved routes using RNAV and PBN standards.

Air navigation service providers and aviation authorities design and publish the network of routes, known as ATS routes or airways. Airlines file a flight plan that specifies the intended route, cruising altitude, speed, and other details; controllers issue clearances to follow the assigned route. Route selection considers wind and weather, airspace restrictions, terrain, traffic levels, and aircraft performance, with the aim of reducing distance, time, fuel burn, and emissions.

Technologies used in flight routing include satellite-based navigation (RNAV and GNSS), navigation aids (VOR/DME), and surveillance and communication systems that support controller-pilot data link and automatic sequencing. Global standards are set by ICAO, with regional implementations coordinated by bodies such as EUROCONTROL and the FAA.

Oceanic and remote airspace often rely on organized track systems and flight levels, while domestic routes rely on fixed or semi-fixed airways. While great-circle distance represents the theoretical shortest path, actual flown routes reflect airspace structure and traffic management.