"PaulH" wrote in message
om...

If I file an IFR flight plan 2 hours in advance from departure from a
towered airport and then leave really early or really late:
1. Is the FP normally available to my local tower about half an hour
after filing?


The flight plan will be available at your local tower as soon as it's
entered in the ATC computer. A strip won't be printed until 30 minutes
prior to your proposed departure time. If you call before that time the
controller can amend the proposed departure time so that the strip will
print immediately.



2. How long does it remain in the "system" if I get delayed?


Normally two hours after your proposed departure time. The flight plan drop
interval can be extended and that normally is done when weather delays
departures.