What additional action must a pilot in command complete for a VFR flight away from the departure airport?

For a VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight, it is essential for pilots to assess runway lengths at all airports they plan to use, alongside understanding their aircraft's takeoff and landing distance data. This consideration ensures that the pilot is aware of the performance characteristics of the aircraft in relation to the available runways, enabling safe departures and landings. Factors such as elevation, temperature, and weight can all impact performance, making this knowledge critical for operational safety.

Determining runway lengths and the aircraft's specific performance data enables pilots to evaluate whether their chosen airports are suitable for the flight, which is particularly important in situations where conditions such as heavy loads or adverse weather may affect takeoff and landing distances. This proactive step contributes significantly to risk management and helps prevent incidents related to runway overrun or insufficient takeoff distance.

Other choices, while they involve important considerations for flight safety, are not specifically required as part of the additional actions to be taken for a VFR flight away from the departure airport. For example, checking weather reports is beneficial but not mandatory for the flight; filing a flight plan may enhance safety and communication with air traffic control but is not a regulatory requirement for VFR flights unless operating under special circumstances; and while ensuring passengers have life