Originally Posted by
physioprof
Does United have much say in the matter? Doesn't ATC tell them where to fly?
In heavily trafficked routes, yes, ATC will dictate the route and altitude (standard terminal arrivals and departures for example). Typically the pilot files a route/altitude and then ATC will either grant it or provide an alternate clearance.
Looking at FlightAware
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/...310Z/KIAH/KAUS
The assigned route was BNDTO5 MNURE WLEEE4. The BNDTO5 MNURE has a standard altitude of 16000.
https://flightaware.com/resources/ai...DTO+FIVE+(RNAV)
Yes, when flying from IAH to AUS, you go through MNURE.