Do diversions count as a flight segment?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Depends on duration
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (B)

A flight segment is the portion of a flight from one defined point to the next in the plan, typically between two airports. A diversion is simply a change of plan during that same leg to an alternate airport because of conditions like weather or fuel, but it does not create a new leg with its own origin and destination. Because the aircraft remains on the same segment from the original departure to the final destination, the diversion is treated as part of that single segment rather than a separate one. It affects timing, fuel planning, and crew duty, but not the count of flight segments. Only if the diversion would lead to a completely new leg with a new origin and destination would a new segment be created.