What must be done to file a VFR flight plan before departure?

To file a VFR flight plan before departure, it is essential to fill out a flight plan form with the necessary details. This form includes critical information such as the pilot's name, aircraft type, departure and destination airports, estimated departure time, route of flight, and any alternate airports if applicable. The purpose of filing a VFR flight plan is to enhance safety by ensuring that Air Traffic Services are informed of your intended route, which can facilitate search and rescue operations if needed.

While ensuring your instruments are checked, notifying ground control, and entering details into the aircraft's navigation system can be part of the pre-flight procedures, the act of formally filing the flight plan itself is accomplished by completing and submitting the flight plan form. This submission initiates the official tracking of your flight by ATC, helping to promote safety and situational awareness.