Using a handheld for a "direct to" clearance

One thing I don't really understand in John Deakin's write up is why he drives so hard to get direct routing from ATC. It seems he's creating more problems than solving. All the IFR flying I've done below 18K, I just file the route via airway/preferred routing and once I'm up, ATC will usually give me direct XXX with out me even having to ask for it. If I have to ask for it, 90% of the time I will get it. It's really not that big of a deal.

I'm with you on that part. The airport I'm based out of has a computer thing where if you're going north (or anything resembling north) you will get this route. You can file it or you can file what you want, you're still going to get it. ATC will work with you once you're in the air, but you can just be ready to read it back, because it is going to be your clearance.

Generally easier to file it and read back "As filed." We usually get direct at least offered pretty quickly.
 
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