What is the purpose of the pre-flight checklist?

The purpose of the pre-flight checklist is to ensure that all aircraft systems are thoroughly checked and confirmed to be operational before takeoff. This checklist serves as a critical safety tool, guiding the pilot through a systematic review of essential systems such as flight controls, fuel levels, navigation equipment, and other key components. By adhering to the checklist, pilots can identify any potential issues or malfunctions that could compromise the safety and performance of the aircraft during flight.

Other options, while relevant to aviation operations, do not capture the primary function of the pre-flight checklist. Documenting flight hours and maintenance intervals pertains to record-keeping rather than immediate operational readiness. Communicating with air traffic control is a procedural task that occurs during flight operations, not prior to departure. Verifying passenger safety measures is important but does not encompass the comprehensive system checks that the pre-flight checklist is designed to ensure. Thus, the primary focus of the pre-flight checklist is on confirming that the aircraft is ready for flight, which makes this answer correct.