What is the key benefit of using a flight management system (FMS)?

Choosing the option that highlights the key benefit of a flight management system (FMS) as reducing pilot workload by automating flight tasks is accurate because the primary function of an FMS is to streamline various navigation and performance management tasks during flight. It integrates data from various sources and allows for automated flight planning, route management, and performance calculations, enabling pilots to focus more on decision-making and situational awareness rather than manual navigation inputs and calculations.

While some modern FMS units include navigation features, that's only one aspect of their functionality. They are not limited to just acting as navigation tools. The FMS also interacts with autopilot systems, optimizing the flight path concerning altitude, speed, and entry and exit points from airways. This level of automation significantly alleviates the cognitive and operational demands placed on pilots, allowing them to manage other aspects of flight more effectively.

In contrast, a flight management system is not primarily a communication tool or dedicated to communication functions, nor does it serve as the singular source for real-time weather updates, although it can interface with other systems to provide such information. Its most recognized advantage exhibits a significant reduction of workload, leading to increased efficiency and enhanced safety in flight operation.