Before each flight, in addition to the checks the engineers complete, one of the pilots will always conduct an exterior walk-around of the aircraft to ensure that they are happy with its condition.

Yes, conducting a "pre-flight walk-around" is a mandatory safety ritual for pilots before every single flight. This high-fidelity inspection is part of the final safety checks to ensure the aircraft is airworthy and free of any visible defects that may have been missed by maintenance crews. Pilots look for everything from bird strikes and fluid leaks to worn tires and loose panels. They also check that sensors, such as pitot tubes, are clear of obstructions like ice or insect nests. While ground crews also perform inspections, the pilot in command bears the ultimate legal and moral responsibility for the safety of the passengers and crew. By personally verifying the physical condition of the aircraft, the pilot gains peace of mind and an extra layer of security before signing off on the flight. This ritual is a cornerstone of aviation discipline, emphasizing that in the high-stakes environment of the sky, no detail is too small to be overlooked before the engines are started.