Which of the following components must be checked prior to flight for GPS navigation?

Before each flight, ensuring that the GPS navigation database is up to date is crucial for safe and effective navigation. The database contains vital information such as waypoints, airways, and restricted areas, which may change over time. Using outdated data can lead to navigation errors, which can pose significant safety risks during flight. Therefore, checking the currency of the database allows pilots to verify that they are operating with the latest navigation information, which is essential for planning and executing safe flight paths.

While other components may also be significant for flight preparation—such as aircraft weight, local terrain considerations, and autopilot function—they do not specifically pertain to the accuracy and reliability of GPS navigation data. Knowing that the GPS database is current directly influences navigational choices and safety, which is why this checklist item is emphasized prior to flight.