Preflight action, as required for all flights away from the vicinity of an airport, shall include which element?

• A. An alternate course of action if the flight cannot be completed as planned
• B. A mandatory flight plan filing
• C. A preflight weather briefing
• D. An engine run-up checklist

Answer: (A)

Planning for contingencies is essential in preflight action. The key element is to have an alternate course of action ready if the flight cannot be completed as planned. This means identifying a safe alternative destination or an alternate landing site and a revised route so you’re not committed to finishing the original plan regardless of changing conditions. This mindset is crucial, especially for glider flights where options after launch are more limited; having a prepared plan for where to land or how to reroute helps maintain safety if weather, performance limits, or other factors prevent reaching the intended destination.

Weather briefing and fuel considerations are important parts of preflight information, and while they support safe planning, the requirement highlighted here centers on having an alternative plan. Filing a flight plan is not required for typical private VFR glider flights, and an engine run-up checklist is not part of preflight action for flights away from the airport.