What signifies "going off on a frolic of his own" in the context of aviation law?

The phrase "going off on a frolic of his own" refers specifically to a situation where an employee or agent acts outside the scope of their employment or authority, typically for personal reasons. In aviation law, this is especially relevant when discussing pilot behavior or actions taken by crew members.

In the given context, when a pilot or crew member deliberately deviates from an assigned flight path or flight plan for personal reasons, they are essentially engaging in behavior that is not authorized by their employer or the operational guidelines of the flight. This could include actions such as choosing to take a scenic route or making unsanctioned stops for personal enjoyment, which directly contradicts their professional obligations.

The other options represent either compliance with regulations or responses to situations that are typically considered part of the operational framework of aviation—like making an emergency landing, which is a responsible and often necessary action that does not fall under the definition of a personal deviation. Similarly, taking a longer flight path for safety reasons is an action that adheres to established safety protocols, rather than a personal initiative. Following flight regulations also speaks to adhering to the established rules, further differentiating it from the concept of acting outside one's authority for personal reasons.