What role does the checklist serve before and during the flight?

The checklist serves a critical role by ensuring that all necessary steps are followed for safety both before and during the flight. It acts as a systematic guide that helps pilots conduct thorough pre-flight inspections and confirm that all pre-flight preparations, such as checking fuel levels, verifying equipment functionality, and ensuring that safety protocols are in place, are completed.

During the flight, the checklist aids in managing complex systems and procedures in multi-engine aircraft, enabling pilots to maintain operational safety by following established protocols for various phases of flight, such as takeoff, landing, and emergency procedures. The reliance on a checklist minimizes the risk of human error, which is vital in aviation where safety is paramount. It promotes consistency and reliability, ensuring that each critical task is addressed systematically.

While efficiency is also important in aviation, the primary purpose of using checklists is to enhance safety, making it a non-negotiable tool rather than an optional one. The notion that it might only assist with navigation overlooks the comprehensive role checklists play in overall flight management and operational integrity.