Why is situational awareness crucial for pilots?

Situational awareness is vital for pilots because it involves understanding and processing information about the environment, including the aircraft's status, weather conditions, and surrounding traffic. This heightened awareness enables pilots to identify potential hazards such as other aircraft, obstacles, or adverse weather conditions quickly and accurately. Being aware of these factors allows pilots to anticipate and respond to challenges effectively, ensuring safety and the ability to make informed decisions during all phases of flight, from takeoff to landing. In high-stress scenarios, maintaining situational awareness is essential for successful risk management and overall flight safety.