When should a pilot check the weather before flight?

Pilots should check the weather prior to every flight for safety because weather conditions can significantly affect flight operations. Understanding the current and forecasted weather conditions allows pilots to make informed decisions about the route, altitude, and potential alternate airports. This proactive approach helps in assessing potential risks such as thunderstorms, turbulence, icing, or low visibility conditions, which could impact flight safety.

Regular weather checks are a standard part of flight preparation, emphasizing the importance of safety and situational awareness in aviation. While there may be specific scenarios where bad weather is suspected, a comprehensive review of weather conditions should always be a routine part of pre-flight procedures, regardless of the nature of the flight, making it vital for all pilots, not just those flying internationally or cargo flights.