Plain English Meaning

Working out everything you need to know before you take off — where you're going, how you'll get there, how much fuel you need, what the weather will do, and what rules apply.

Full Definition

The pre-flight process of preparing all the information and decisions needed to conduct a flight safely and legally, including route selection, altitude choice, fuel calculation, weather analysis, weight and balance, performance data, alternate airports, and review of applicable regulations and procedures.

Context Anchor

Seen before every flight, and especially in instrument flying, where weather, routing, fuel, and backup airport choices must be decided before .