Automation for 'Direct-to' Clearances in Air-Traffic Control

A method of automation, and a system of computer hardware and software to implement the method, have been invented to assist en-route air-traffic controllers in the issuance of clearances to fly directly to specified waypoints or navigation fixes along straight paths that deviate from previously filed flight plans. Such clearances, called 'direct-to' clearances, have been in use since before the invention of this method and system. Usually, they are issued when requested by pilots; less frequently, controllers issue them on their own initiatives.