The Air Navigation Order 2000

Pre-flight action by commander of aircraft

43  The commander of an aircraft registered in the United Kingdom shall reasonably satisfy himself before the aircraft takes off:

(a) that the flight can safely be made, taking into account the latest information available as to the route and aerodrome to be used, the weather reports and forecasts available and any alternative course of action which can be adopted in case the flight cannot be completed as planned;

(b) (i) that the equipment (including radio apparatus) required by or under this Order to be carried in the circumstances of the intended flight is carried and is in a fit condition for use; or

(ii) that the flight may commence under and in accordance with the terms of a permission granted to the operator pursuant to article 16 of this Order;

(c) that the aircraft is in every way fit for the intended flight, and that where a certificate of maintenance review is required by article 10(1) of this Order to be in force, it is in force and will not cease to be in force during the intended flight;

(d) that the load carried by the aircraft is of such weight, and is so distributed and secured, that it may safely be carried on the intended flight;

(e) in the case of a flying machine or airship, that sufficient fuel, oil and engine coolant (if required) are carried for the intended flight, and that a safe margin has been allowed for contingencies, and, in the case of a flight for the purpose of public transport, that the instructions in the operations manual relating to fuel, oil and engine coolant have been complied with;

(f) in the case of an airship or balloon, that sufficient ballast is carried for the intended flight;

(g) in the case of a flying machine, that having regard to the performance of the flying machine in the conditions to be expected on the intended flight, and to any obstructions at the places of departure and intended destination and on the intended route, it is capable of safely taking off, reaching and maintaining a safe height thereafter and making a safe landing at the place of intended destination; and

(h) that any pre-flight check system established by the operator and set forth in the operations manual or elsewhere has been complied with by each member of the crew of the aircraft.