How is a cross-country flight defined in terms of distance?

A cross-country flight is specifically defined in aviation regulations as a flight that covers a distance of more than 25 nautical miles from the point of departure to the point of landing. This definition is important because it establishes a clear boundary between local flights, which are typically shorter and may include operations confined within a certain distance of the departure airport, and cross-country flights that require navigation skills and planning for longer journeys.

Understanding this definition helps pilots adhere to specific training and certification requirements associated with cross-country flying. For instance, certain flight training hours may need to be accumulated through cross-country flights to meet licensing criteria. Thus, recognizing that a cross-country flight begins beyond the 25 nautical mile mark is essential for any pilot in training or operational context.