When does total flight time begin and end?

Total flight time is typically defined as the duration of time during which an aircraft is in the air, encompassing the actual flight operation from takeoff to landing. The correct choice indicates that total flight time begins at the initiation of the takeoff roll, which marks the point at which the aircraft starts its ascent toward departure, and ends 5 minutes after landing, capturing the entire transition from descent and landing to a complete halt on the ground. This definition allows for a standard measurement of flight duration that includes crucial phases of flight where performance and operational factors are considered.

This definition is particularly important in aviation as it provides a consistent way to log flight hours for the purpose of pilot training, experience qualifications, and regulatory requirements. The additional time after landing is often included to account for the aircraft's deceleration and taxiing to a complete stop, ensuring that all phases of the flight operation are fully accounted for in the total flight time records.