What two factors heavily influence the selection of a PZ?

The selection of a Planning Zone (PZ) is critical for the success of air assault operations, and safety considerations and accessibility are foundational factors in this decision-making process. Safety considerations prioritize the well-being of personnel and equipment, ensuring that the chosen PZ minimizes risks from potential hazards, such as enemy fire, obstacle interference, or adverse environmental conditions. A safe PZ is essential to protect troops during landing and loading operations.

Accessibility is equally important, as it entails the ability for aircraft to easily approach and land in the selected zone, allowing for efficient troop transport and resupply. This includes analyzing factors such as the physical space available for aircraft, proximity to the area of operations, and the terrain's suitability for safe landings. Choosing a PZ with the right balance of safety and accessibility ensures the operation proceeds smoothly and reduces the chances of mission failure or loss of personnel.

While other factors may influence PZ selection, they do not hold the same weight as safety and accessibility in terms of operational immediacy and effectiveness.