During a VFR flight away from the vicinity of the departure airport, what is the PIC required to determine?

• A. Determine runway lengths at airports of intended use and the aircraft's takeoff and landing distance data.
• B. File a flight plan with ATC.
• C. Publish a NOTAM.
• D. Check weather for the next 24 hours.

Answer: (A)

Performance planning is essential before venturing away from the departure area. The PIC must determine the runway lengths at airports you plan to use and the aircraft’s takeoff and landing distance data. This information lets you assess whether your aircraft can safely take off on the available runway and land within the expected distances at each destination, considering weight, weather (density altitude), wind, and runway surface conditions. Without this data, you could encounter a situation where a chosen runway isn’t long enough for a safe takeoff or landing, especially under hot or high conditions or with a heavier load.

Filing a flight plan with ATC isn’t required for typical VFR flights, NOTAMs are notices issued to pilots rather than something you publish, and while checking weather is important, the requirement highlighted here centers on knowing the performance-related distances and runway lengths to ensure safe operation.