FAA Ground School Practice Test

Prior to starting each maneuver, what should the pilot do for collision avoidance?

1. Check the weather report

2. Visually scan the entire area

3. Communicate with air traffic control

4. Use the autopilot system

The correct answer is: Visually scan the entire area

Prior to starting each maneuver, visually scanning the entire area is essential for collision avoidance. This practice involves actively looking outside the cockpit to identify other aircraft, obstacles, and changes in the environment that could present a risk. A thorough visual scan allows a pilot to detect potential threats early, which is crucial for making informed decisions about maneuvering the aircraft safely. While other factors are important in flight operations—such as checking the weather report, which informs the pilot about flight conditions, and communicating with air traffic control for situational awareness—these actions do not directly contribute to the immediate need for collision avoidance prior to a maneuver. Using the autopilot system can help maintain control under certain conditions, but it does not replace the need for situational awareness through visual inspection. Therefore, focusing on a thorough visual scan is the most effective method for ensuring safety and preventing collisions in the airspace.