Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

In a flight operation, who is required to ensure preflight actions are completed?

1. The flight crew

2. The pilot in command

3. The co-pilot

4. The air traffic controller

The correct answer is: The pilot in command

The pilot in command (PIC) holds the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that all preflight actions are completed before departure. This responsibility is rooted in Federal Aviation Regulations, which stipulate that the PIC must ensure that the aircraft is airworthy, has been properly maintained, and that all necessary checks and measures are taken for safe flight operations. The PIC must also ensure that the preflight checklist is completed, which includes reviewing weather conditions, verifying fuel requirements, understanding the flight route, and conducting safety briefings specific to that flight. The PIC’s authority and accountability encompass the safety of the flight and the well-being of all crew and passengers onboard, which is why this individual is positioned as the key figure in preflight readiness. While the flight crew members can assist in these tasks, it ultimately falls to the PIC to ensure that these preflight actions are carried out thoroughly and correctly. The co-pilot, while trained to support the PIC, does not have the final say in preflight responsibilities, and an air traffic controller does not have any operational responsibility regarding a specific flight's preflight actions; their role is primarily to manage air traffic within controlled airspace. Therefore, the role of the pilot in command is central to ensuring all safety protocols and preflight