One of the most important concepts that safe pilots understand is the difference between what is “legal” in terms of the regulations,  and what is “smart” or “safe” in terms of pilot experience and proficiency.$_{ }$ The pilot is one of the risk factors in a flight. When considering that risk, a pilot may ask, “Am I ready for this trip?” in terms of  experience, currency, and physical and emotional condition. The IMSAFE checklist (described later in this chapter) combined with  proficiency, recency, and currency helps provide the answer.  What limitations will the aircraft impose upon the trip? Ask the following questions:  Weather is a major environmental consideration. Earlier it was suggested pilots set their own personal minimums, especially when it  comes to weather. As pilots evaluate the weather for a particular flight, they should consider the following:  1-5  ⦁ $_{If icing conditions are encountered, is the pilot experienced at operating the aircraft’s deicing or anti-icing }$ equipment? Is this equipment in good condition and functional? For what icing conditions is the aircraft  rated, if any?  ⦁ $_{If there are clouds, is there any icing, current or forecast? What is the temperature-dew point spread and }$ the current temperature at altitude? Can descent be made safely all along the route?  ⦁ $_{Are there any thunderstorms present or forecast? }$ ⦁ $_{If flying in mountainous terrain, consider whether there are strong winds aloft. Strong winds in }$ mountainous terrain can cause severe turbulence and downdrafts and can be very hazardous for aircraft even  when there is no other significant weather.  ⦁ $_{Consider the winds at the airports being used and the strength of the crosswind component. }$ ⦁ $_{Consider the possibility that the weather may be different than forecast. Have alternative plans and be ready }$ and willing to divert should an unexpected change occur.  ⦁ $_{What are the current ceiling and visibility? In mountainous terrain, consider having higher minimums for }$ ceiling and visibility, particularly if the terrain is unfamiliar.  ⦁ $_{Does the fuel quantity delivered match the fuel quantity ordered? }$ ⦁ $_{Does this aircraft have sufficient fuel capacity, with reserves, for trip legs planned? }$ ⦁ $_{Can this aircraft operate at the altitudes needed for the trip? }$ ⦁ $_{Can this aircraft carry the planned load? }$ ⦁ $_{Can this aircraft use the runways available for the trip with an adequate margin of safety under the }$ conditions to be flown?  ⦁ $_{Is this aircraft equipped for the flight? Instruments? Lights? Navigation and communication equipment }$ adequate?  ⦁ $_{Am I familiar with and current in this aircraft? Aircraft performance figures and the AFM are based on a }$ brand-new aircraft flown by a professional test pilot. Keep that in mind while assessing personal and  aircraft performance.  ⦁ $_{Is this the right aircraft for the flight? }$ P = Pilot in Command (PIC)  A = Aircraft  V = EnVironment 