When ESCAT has been implemented, what are pilots required to do?

When the Emergency Security Control of Air Traffic (ESCAT) has been implemented, pilots are required to comply with any instructions from Air Traffic Control (ATC) or Flight Service Stations (FSS). This directive ensures that flight operations are coordinated and secure, especially during heightened security situations where safety and situational awareness are paramount.

Following the instructions from ATC or FSS allows for the management of air traffic in a controlled manner, which is crucial when there may be concerns about security threats, potential emergencies, or other operational challenges. Pilots must prioritize these communications to ensure both their safety and the safety of others in the airspace.

In this context, while proceeding to the nearest airport, continuing flight as planned, or submitting an emergency flight plan might seem like valid responses in a general emergency, they do not align with the specific requirements set forth under ESCAT. Compliance with ATC or FSS instructions is the primary action to be taken in these scenarios, as it facilitates effective management of airspace under unusual or emergency conditions.