What should a pilot do when there are unscheduled changes in crew or passenger lists?

When there are unscheduled changes in crew or passenger lists, the correct course of action is to complete a new DD Form 175 or DD Form 1801 reflecting those changes. This is essential for safety and compliance reasons, as keeping accurate records of who is on board the aircraft is vital for both operational integrity and emergency situations.

By filing a new form, the pilot ensures that all personnel on the flight are accounted for and that authorities have the most up-to-date information should any issues arise. This process also helps to maintain clear communication with air traffic control and ensures that legal and regulatory requirements are met.

While conducting business as usual might seem convenient, it neglects the importance of accuracy in flight documentation. Notifying only the nearest airport does not provide the full picture of the flight's operations and does not satisfy regulatory requirements. Filing changes only with the original flight plan could also lead to outdated information being used in critical situations, which could compromise safety. Thus, completing a new form is the best practice in these circumstances.