What is one of the preflight actions required before conducting an IFR flight?

One of the essential preflight actions required before conducting an IFR flight is the review of NOTAMs, which stands for Notices to Airmen. This review is crucial because NOTAMs provide pilots with vital information about the current conditions that may affect the flight, including airport and runway closures, airspace restrictions, and other important operational changes. Being aware of these details allows the pilot to make informed decisions regarding routing and any potential hazards that may exist along the intended flight path.

In addition, reviewing NOTAMs ensures compliance with regulations and promotes safety by informing pilots of unexpected issues that could impact their flight. This proactive step is a critical part of the decision-making process for IFR flying, reflecting the comprehensive planning and assessment that is necessary for safe instrument flight operations.

Other preflight actions, while also important, are not explicitly required by regulations as part of the IFR preflight checklist. For instance, inspecting cabin lights contributes to overall safety but does not specifically address flight operation readiness. Similarly, while completing a risk assessment is beneficial, it is not mandated in the same way as reviewing NOTAMs and filing a flight plan, which is a standard requirement for IFR operations.