If the alternate weather along an enroute flight falls below minimums, what should the dispatcher do?

• A. File no alternate IFR
• B. File a new alternate and notify the PIC
• C. Select a new aerodrome and contact the PIC to discuss a new course of action
• D. Call Dario

Answer: (C)

Contingency planning for an IFR flight when an enroute alternate falls below minimums requires securing a viable alternate and coordinating with the PIC. When the forecast or observed weather at the chosen alternate doesn’t meet required minima, the dispatcher should identify a different aerodrome that does provide acceptable minima and then contact the pilot in command to discuss the updated plan. This keeps the flight compliant and ensures there’s a real, usable option for diversion if needed. Bringing the PIC into the discussion allows the crew to weigh routing changes, fuel, and timing against safety and operational constraints, so everyone understands the next steps.

Choosing a new aerodrome and coordinating with the PIC avoids leaving the flight without a compliant alternate and ensures decisions reflect both regulatory requirements and real-time operational judgment. Filing no alternate would be inappropriate, and simply notifying the PIC without selecting a viable alternative or discussing course of action misses the necessary planning and agreement. Calling an unrelated person isn’t appropriate or useful in this context.