Aircraft dispatchers are held just as legally responsible for the flight plan and flight execution as the pilot, where flight followers do not hold the same legal responsibilities. And, even though the title flight follower or aircraft dispatcher does not scream “superhero,” you might as well be Clark Kent.

The difference between Flight Following and Flight Dispatch lies primarily in legal responsibility and the level of planning involved. Flight Dispatchers are FAA-certified professionals (in the US) who share "joint responsibility" with the pilot for the safety of the flight. They create the operational flight plan, calculate fuel requirements, and have the authority to delay or cancel a flight. In 2026, they are the "ground-based captains" for commercial airlines. Flight Following, on the other hand, is a more limited service often provided by General Aviation or smaller charter operators. A "flight follower" monitors the aircraft's progress and provides weather updates or traffic alerts, but they do not hold the same legal liability for the flight's outcome as a dispatcher or pilot. Essentially, a dispatcher is a partner in the decision-making process before and during the flight, while a flight follower is a monitor who provides information and assistance without the authority to command the flight's operational status.