When choosing an alternate airport, which factor is NOT important to consider?

In the context of selecting an alternate airport, it is essential to understand that the primary factors to consider include conditions relevant to the potential destination and alternate, specifically those that would impact safety and operational capability. Distance from the departure airport is crucial, as it affects how quickly an aircraft can reach the alternate if needed, while fuel availability is vital to ensure that you can complete the flight plus any diversions without running out of fuel. Runway conditions are also significant because they dictate whether the aircraft can land safely at the alternate, depending on size, surface, and any potential hazards.

While the weather at the departure airport is important for planning and assessing the immediate conditions impacting takeoff, it does not directly influence the appropriateness or suitability of an alternate airport. Instead, the focus should be on the weather conditions at the alternate airport itself. Selecting an alternate airport requires a thorough examination of potential weather scenarios there, since the purpose is to ensure safety in case the primary route cannot be completed as planned.