Quote:
Originally Posted by DGlaeser
When VFR, the controllers have responsibility only when you are actually in their airspace. As noted previously, FF is voluntary on their part, so be prepared to be dropped at any time.
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Just a minor correction here, but FF is actually not voluntary on their part, controllers are required to provide the service unless it interferes with their primary responsibility, which is the separation of IFR aircraft.
"Basic radar services should be provided to the extent possible, workload permitting."
7-6-11. TERMINATION OF SERVICE
http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publi...atc0706.html.2
My understanding is the discretion regarding "workload permitting" is left to the individual controller and some have interpreted this very conservatively and the FAA doesn't call them on it very often, if ever.
I realize this is a minor quibble with what you posted and you are right in that this service is more or less effectively "voluntary" on the part of the controller given the way it's implemented. The reason I point this out is because if I were ever denied FF or dropped and I didn't agree with the controller's decision to do so, I would file an ASRS report. ATC should be providing this service to the maximum extent possible. It makes everyone safer and we are all paying for it. It shouldn't be denied capriciously.