Pilot/Controller Glossary

DIRECT-

This reproduces published FAA reference text for study. It does not replace the current official FAA publication or regulation.

Straight line flight between two navigational aids, fixes, points, or any combination thereof. When used by pilots in describing off‐airway routes, points defining direct route segments become compulsory reporting points unless the aircraft is under radar contact.

Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 18, 2026.