When you see smoke and a brush fire along your cross-country path, what is the recommended action?

• A. Avoid the area of the fire and contact FSS to see if there is a TFR in effect for the area
• B. Fly through at a higher altitude to clear the smoke
• C. Continue as planned and report the smoke after landing
• D. Land immediately

Answer: (A)

Stay well clear of any active fire zone and check for airspace restrictions before proceeding. Active brush fires bring several hazards: rapidly changing winds, updrafts and downdrafts, and turbulence near the fire can make controlling the airplane difficult; smoke can severely reduce visibility and degrade air quality, making navigation and collision avoidance harder. There may also be firefighting operations and airspace restrictions in place to protect ground crews and the public.

The proper steps are to contact a Flight Service Station (FSS) to determine if a temporary flight restriction (TFR) or other NOTAM affects your route, and to follow their guidance for a safe alternate course. This ensures you avoid the hazardous area and stay compliant with current airspace and safety advisories.

Flying through or at a higher altitude to “clear” the smoke isn’t reliable, because smoke can drift and linger at various levels and you may still encounter reduced visibility or encounter active operations and restricted airspace. Continuing as planned and reporting smoke after landing doesn’t address the immediate risk you’re facing, and landing immediately is unnecessary unless you’re unable to maintain safe flight or avoid the area. The best action is to detour and verify conditions with FSS.