What is a potential issue with the numerical Flight Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT) as outlined by the FAA Risk Management Handbook?

The potential issue with the numerical Flight Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT) is that it may encourage pilots to ignore certain hazards. This concern arises from the structured nature of the tool, which assigns numerical values to various risk factors, potentially leading to a false sense of security. Pilots might focus on the quantifiable elements while neglecting qualitative aspects of decision-making or other hazards that aren’t directly represented in the numerical assessment.

A holistic risk assessment requires considering both numerical data and the nuances of aviation risks, including those that might not easily lend themselves to quantification, such as pilot experience or unforeseen circumstances. This emphasis on numbers can inadvertently lead to overlooking critical elements that don't have a clear numeric value but could significantly impact flight safety.

In contrast, the other choices either imply a misunderstanding of the FRAT's purpose or misrepresent its capabilities. The tool does not exclusively assess weather conditions; it evaluates a range of factors. Additionally, while it aims to assist with hazard analysis, saying it provides a comprehensive hazard analysis may not capture the nuanced decision-making required in aviation risk management. Understanding these subtleties ensures that pilots can effectively utilize the FRAT while remaining cognizant of its limitations.