What is the first step required when calculating the time required to fly a distance in the navigation log?

The first step in calculating the time required to fly a distance in the navigation log is to identify the distance. This is crucial because the time needed for the flight is fundamentally linked to the distance being traveled. Without knowing the distance, any subsequent calculations cannot be accurately performed.

Once the distance is established, other factors such as true airspeed, wind direction, and ground speed can then be taken into account to calculate the total flight time. These subsequent calculations rely on a defined starting point—the distance. Thus, identifying the distance serves as the foundation necessary for subsequent calculations in aviation navigation.