What is the primary function of the Flight Service Station (FSS) regarding overdue aircraft?

The primary function of the Flight Service Station (FSS) regarding overdue aircraft is to initiate Search and Rescue (SAR) procedures. When an aircraft is reported overdue, it indicates that the aircraft is missing or has not arrived at its intended destination as planned. The FSS serves as a key point of contact for pilots and air traffic service providers in such situations. Their role includes alerting appropriate agencies and coordinating efforts to locate the aircraft, ensuring the safety of the crew and passengers.

While providing weather updates, issuing flight plans, and tracking aircraft in flight are important functions of the FSS, they do not specifically address the situation of an overdue aircraft. Weather updates are crucial for flight preparation and safety, and flight plans are necessary for managing air traffic and ensuring flight safety, but these actions are proactive rather than reactive in response to a problem. Tracking aircraft in flight is primarily under the responsibility of air traffic control. Thus, the initiation of SAR procedures is the most critical and specific function of the FSS in the context of overdue aircraft.