Steven P. McNicoll wrote:
"Rich Ahrens" wrote in message
...

And yet it happens all the time with flight following here (MSP). For
instance, a few weeks ago I was using FF returning from EAU to FCM
(Minneapolis Flying Cloud, southwest of the Cities and under the Class B).
When center handed me off to approach, I was told "Maintain VFR, fly
direct Farmington, direct Flying Cloud." No, not a heading per se, but as
good as one. And on numerous other occasions I *have* been issued a
heading that accomplished the same thing.

Just say no. You're operating VFR in Class E airspace, ATC has no
authority to issue a route or heading to you and no reason to do
so either.

Of course. However, the next thing I hear will probably be "Traffic
advisories terminated, squawk 1200." Playing along isn't much of a
delay, if any, and flight following is worth it to me in that environment.