FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What is the minimum fuel requirement before starting a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR?

1. To fly to the first point of landing

2. To fly for 15 minutes after landing

3. To fly for at least 20 minutes after reaching the destination

4. To fly to the first point of intended landing plus 20 minutes

The correct answer is: To fly to the first point of intended landing plus 20 minutes

The minimum fuel requirement before starting a flight in a rotorcraft under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) is designed to ensure that the aircraft has enough fuel for the intended flight as well as a safety buffer. The correct answer stipulates that the fuel must be sufficient to fly to the first point of intended landing plus an additional 20 minutes of flight time. This additional 20 minutes is crucial because it accounts for unforeseen circumstances that might require the pilot to divert to an alternate airport, face changes in weather conditions, or handle other situational adjustments during the flight. It enhances safety by providing a margin that can help avoid fuel exhaustion in the event of unexpected delays or emergencies. Understanding this requirement emphasizes the importance of thorough pre-flight planning and fuel management, which are essential components of aviation safety. In VFR operations, pilots must always be prepared for contingencies; therefore, adhering to this rule helps ensure both the safety of the flight and compliance with aviation regulations.