To get a complete weather briefing for a planned flight, the pilot should request what type of briefing?

To obtain a complete weather briefing for a planned flight, requesting a standard briefing is the most appropriate choice. A standard briefing provides comprehensive information regarding current weather conditions, forecasts, and any significant weather-related phenomena that may affect the flight. This type of briefing includes essential details such as radar summaries, surface analysis, winds aloft, turbulence reports, and information about NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), making it a crucial resource for flight planning.

A standard briefing ensures that the pilot is equipped with the most pertinent information to make informed decisions regarding the safety and feasibility of the flight. This is particularly important when preparing for a flight under varying weather conditions, as it allows the pilot to thoroughly assess all potential hazards.

In contrast, the other types of briefings serve different purposes. An outlook briefing is intended for planning flights several days in advance and focuses on anticipated weather conditions rather than current ones. An update briefing is designed to provide changes or new information on weather that can significantly impact a flight that has already been briefed. An abbreviated briefing offers a quick overview, suitable for pilots who already have a good understanding of the weather conditions but do not require a full briefing.