During which phase of flight should a pilot be most aware of changing weather conditions?

Being most aware of changing weather conditions during the approach and landing phase of flight is crucial for several reasons.

During this phase, a pilot is significantly closer to the ground and operationally engaged with maneuvering the aircraft for landing. As the aircraft descends, it is subject to various weather phenomena such as wind shear, turbulence, low visibility, and sudden weather changes that can impact the safe execution of the landing.

Additionally, many weather conditions like fog, rain, or thunderstorms are often more pronounced and hazardous during this phase, potentially affecting both visibility and the aircraft's performance.

While awareness of weather is important in all phases of flight, the urgency and the need for precise execution during approach and landing make this phase particularly critical for monitoring any changes in weather conditions. Pre-flight planning is essential for route selection and anticipating weather, but immediate awareness is key during the landing process.