When should the DRAFT report to the IP be offered?

When should the DRAFT report to the IP be offered?

• A. After descent checklist when a divert may be required.
• B. After descent checks and/or DRAFT report (if DRAFT report was required).
• C. Before descent checks.
• D. After the missed approach.

Answer: (A)

Handling contingencies as they evolve is essential. The DRAFT report is a way to flag to the instructor pilot that a diversion may become necessary, so you want to offer it at a point when you have enough information to judge that possibility. That is after you complete the descent checklist and you’ve evaluated the situation—weather, fuel, terrain, and airspace—and determine a divert might be required. Presenting it here gives the IP the opportunity to review options, adjust the plan, and provide guidance before you commit to a specific course or execute a missed approach. Reporting earlier than this would be premature, since there isn’t a clear need yet, and reporting after the missed approach would be too late for proactive planning and discussion of alternatives.

Handling contingencies as they evolve is essential. The DRAFT report is a way to flag to the instructor pilot that a diversion may become necessary, so you want to offer it at a point when you have enough information to judge that possibility. That is after you complete the descent checklist and you’ve evaluated the situation—weather, fuel, terrain, and airspace—and determine a divert might be required. Presenting it here gives the IP the opportunity to review options, adjust the plan, and provide guidance before you commit to a specific course or execute a missed approach.

Reporting earlier than this would be premature, since there isn’t a clear need yet, and reporting after the missed approach would be too late for proactive planning and discussion of alternatives.