When does the preflight inspection begin?

The preflight inspection begins as you walk towards the airplane because this time can be used to conduct an initial visual assessment of the aircraft. Before physically interacting with the airplane, a pilot can observe the overall condition of the aircraft, look for any obvious signs of damage or issues, and assess the surrounding environment for potential hazards. This proactive approach sets the stage for a thorough preflight inspection, ensuring that the pilot is not just focused on the cockpit but is aware of and attentive to the entire aircraft and its surroundings.

This mindset is crucial, as the safety and readiness of an aircraft are initiated before entering the cockpit. A pilot's careful observation during this initial walk is part of establishing a comprehensive safety routine and can lead to the early identification of potential problems.