What action should a pilot take if their flight plan is compromised?

When a pilot's flight plan is compromised, the appropriate action is to report to air traffic control and update the flight plan. This is essential because air traffic control relies on accurate and current information to provide safe and efficient guidance to aircraft in the airspace. By notifying air traffic control of any changes, the pilot ensures that they receive the necessary clearances and instructions to maintain flight safety and prevent any potential conflicts with other aircraft.

Adjusting the flight plan without notifying anyone could lead to hazardous situations, as air traffic control would not have updated information on the aircraft's intentions. Canceling the flight altogether may not be necessary unless the situation is severe or safety is at risk, and flying the original route without change could also pose dangers if conditions or circumstances have altered significantly since the original plan was filed. Therefore, the best practice is to communicate the changes with air traffic control to maintain the highest level of situational awareness and safety.