When do pilots input STAR approach in FMS?

A flightplan can absolutely include a STAR if any are available. That’s the point of them. These will appear in the IFR clearance and are entered into the FMS before departure. Of course, if this changes en route (if different runways begin being used due to a wind change, for example), controllers will issue an amended clearance, possibly with instructions to proceed direct to a fix along the STAR.

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