What should one do with pitot tubes when preparing an aircraft for flight?

Locating and inspecting the condition of pitot tubes is essential in preparing an aircraft for flight because these tubes play a crucial role in measuring airspeed. Proper functionality of the pitot system is vital for the safety and performance of an aircraft, as they provide critical data to pilots about the speed at which the aircraft is traveling through the air.

The inspection should focus on ensuring that the pitot tubes are clear of any obstructions, such as insects or debris, which can lead to inaccurate readings. Additionally, checking for physical damage or leaks can help prevent any malfunction during flight, which is imperative for maintaining safe operating conditions.

Addressing the other choices, touching and adjusting them for accuracy is unnecessary since pitot tubes are generally calibrated during manufacturing. Removing them for safety checks would not be practical since they need to remain on the aircraft to ensure accurate airspeed readings. Ignoring them during the pre-flight check would be highly irresponsible, as it could lead to significant safety risks during the flight. Therefore, the proper protocol is to locate and inspect them thoroughly before each flight.