Direct-to

Direct-to is an ATC clearance or FMS function that allows an aircraft to navigate straight to a specified waypoint, navaid, or fix without following the published airway structure in between. A direct-to clearance shortens the flight path and saves time and fuel.

In the cockpit, pilots activate direct-to using the D→ button on the FMS or GPS unit, which recalculates the flight plan to draw a straight line from the current position to the selected waypoint. ATC may issue direct-to clearances when traffic permits, using phraseology like "Proceed direct WAYPOINT" or "Cleared direct DESTINATION."

Limitations on direct-to routing include airspace restrictions, minimum en-route altitudes, international boundary requirements, and traffic separation needs. In congested airspace, direct-to clearances are less common because ATC needs aircraft to follow structured routes for sequencing.