(Hankal) wrote in message ...
The first step is to use flight following, which puts you in contact with
ATC right off the bat.

not always possible if ATC is busy with IFR traffic, or the approach/ departure
person is not in the mood. Here in the East we get unable many times.

Bob & Hankal:

Interestingly, my original reason for starting this thread (THANKS
everyone!!) was due to a recent response of "UNABLE" from Flight
Following in the NYC area when trying to file IFR. The resultant
scramble for available options made me rethink not just the textbook
procedures, but also the generally-accepted procedures as well.

Stimbo
Medford, NJ