What is the responsibility of the pilot during an RNAV Departure?

During an RNAV Departure, the pilot's responsibility to fly preplanned routes is essential. RNAV, or Area Navigation, allows aircraft to navigate using waypoints defined in a preplanned route, which is crucial for maintaining efficiency and safety during departures. These routes are derived from the Standard Instrument Departure (SID) procedures or other published RNAV routes, ensuring that aircraft can transition from the departure airport to the en route phase in a controlled manner.

The emphasis on following these preplanned routes is critical because they are designed to provide safe clearances over terrain, obstacles, and controlled airspace. While air traffic control (ATC) instructions are important, the pilot must be familiar with the RNAV departure procedures so they can effectively execute the flight plan while remaining compliant with ATC clearances.

Maintaining visual contact with other aircraft and communicating constantly with ground control, although important aspects of overall flight safety, do not capture the primary responsibility described in the context of RNAV departures. The focus is primarily on navigating along the designated routes to ensure smooth flight operations within the air traffic system.