Pilot request deviation
Wont post the actual event, to protect the innocent, but assuming a Pilot files a flight plan and en route ATC request the pilot to change alt, heading or speed I take it if the PIC is happy to comply they will
However if a Aircraft requests a change en route, not weather, fuel or system but a opportunity for a bit of 'sightseeing' for the passengers, does the Pilot have to justify to ATC?, or just get ATC agreement?
On a receint flight the Pilot came on the tannoy and highlighted to the passengers a particular landmark and then appeared to do a 180 so the landmark then passed the other side of the aircraft then another 180 back on course. We landed early.
Would the Pilot be carpeted for excess fuel use?
Would love to thank the crew but dont want to get them in trouble
When I got home checked FR24 and my flight track did make a course change that supported the actions of the aircraft and the tannoy. and my flight number in the days before did not get within 50 miles of this landmark
Was not a busy airspace and no other a/c within close proximity with clear daylight conditions