What responsibility do pilots have when operating under visual flight rules (VFR)?

When operating under visual flight rules (VFR), pilots hold the essential responsibility to avoid any terrain or environmental hazards. This duty underscores the fundamental principle of VFR, where pilots navigate primarily by visual references outside the cockpit. They must actively scan their surroundings to ensure they do not collide with obstacles such as mountains, buildings, or other terrain features that may pose risks to safe flight.

While avoiding other aircraft is certainly part of a pilot's responsibilities, VFR operations also require vigilance against various environmental hazards, such as weather patterns or obstacles that may not be as immediately obvious. Additionally, while pilots can maintain communication with air traffic control, they are not solely reliant on ATC for separation, especially in uncontrolled airspace where VFR flight applies. This emphasizes the pilot's authority and responsibility to maintain safe spacing and navigation under VFR conditions.

Recording traffic communications, while beneficial for safety and reporting, is not specifically required under VFR operations. Instead, the primary focus remains on visual navigation and hazard avoidance, thus making the responsibility to steer clear of terrain and environmental dangers the correct choice.