What is the minimum duration that flight plans and dispatch releases need to be retained by a flag air carrier?

The retention period for flight plans and dispatch releases is critical for compliance with aviation regulations and safety practices. Flag air carriers are required to maintain these records for a minimum of three months. This period is essential to ensure that all operational data is available for review and reference in the event of an investigation or audit. It allows the carrier to provide necessary documentation regarding flight operations and decisions made during that time, which could be crucial in confirming adherence to safety and regulatory standards.

The three-month retention is a balance between maintaining sufficient historical data for operational integrity and the practicalities of record-keeping in a fast-paced industry. Regulations dictate this period to ensure that all relevant information is accessible for a reasonable timeframe without overwhelming the carrier with excessively prolonged support obligations.