What is a major reason for conducting a risk assessment before a flight?

Conducting a risk assessment before a flight is crucial because it allows pilots and flight planners to identify and prepare for potential hazards that could impact safety. This process involves evaluating various factors that could pose risks during the flight, such as weather conditions, aircraft performance, navigational challenges, and airspace restrictions. By anticipating these hazards, appropriate measures can be implemented to mitigate risks, enhancing safety for the crew and passengers.

While other options like calculating the optimum route, ensuring fuel efficiency, and determining passenger comfort are important considerations in flight planning, they do not prioritize safety in the same way as preparing for potential hazards does. The primary objective of a risk assessment is to foster a safer flying environment by systematically addressing risks before they can affect the flight.