Why is situational assessment important during approach and landing?

Situational assessment during approach and landing is crucial because it enhances the crew's awareness of current conditions and the necessary actions to ensure safety. A robust situational assessment involves continuously monitoring factors such as weather, surrounding air traffic, runway conditions, and any anomalies that may arise. This holistic understanding allows the flight crew to make informed decisions that can adapt to rapidly changing environments, ensuring that they can respond effectively to any challenges encountered during these critical phases of flight.

Moreover, maintaining situational awareness helps in anticipating potential issues and executing appropriate safety protocols, thus reducing the likelihood of incidents or accidents. As such, this practice is integral to the overall safety management system within aviation operations, particularly during the high-stakes moments of approach and landing.