Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

For a VFR flight away from the departure airport, what must the pilot in command determine?

1. Weather patterns

2. Runway lengths at intended airports

3. Fuel consumption rates

4. Air traffic patterns

The correct answer is: Runway lengths at intended airports

In the context of a VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight, the pilot in command is responsible for several factors related to safety and operational readiness. Among these, determining runway lengths at intended airports is essential, especially when planning a flight to a destination airport. This assessment is crucial because runway length can significantly influence the aircraft's performance during takeoff and landing, particularly in relation to weight, altitude, temperature, and wind conditions. Understanding the runway lengths helps the pilot assess whether the chosen destination is suitable for the aircraft being flown. If the runway is too short for the aircraft's requirements, it could lead to an unsafe situation during landing or takeoff, risking the safety of the flight. Considering factors such as airport elevation and aircraft performance under varying conditions is vital in this decision-making process. While the other aspects listed—weather patterns, fuel consumption rates, and air traffic patterns—are indeed important for a pilot to evaluate for overall flight planning and safety, the specific requirement to determine runway lengths directly pertains to the safe execution of takeoff and landing procedures at the intended airports.