If suitable landmarks are not available to determine distances on the same runway, a departing aircraft must not begin takeoff roll until the preceding departure has become airborne and crossed the runway end or ___.

• A. has landed on the runway
• B. has crossed the runway end
• C. has turned to avert conflict
• D. has completed the takeoff roll

Answer: (C)

When there isn’t reliable landmarks to gauge distance on the same runway, you must ensure the aircraft that went before you is fully out of the potential conflict path before you start your takeoff roll. The safe trigger is that the preceding departure is airborne and beyond the runway end, or has maneuvered to avert a conflict. If the first aircraft turns to avert conflict, it means they’ve adjusted their flight path to keep clear of the second aircraft’s takeoff path, allowing you to proceed with takeoff. Opening with any other condition—like waiting for the first to land, or merely hoping they’ve crossed the runway end, or waiting until their takeoff roll is finished—would not provide the same level of safety and separation in this situation.