What is the primary purpose of navigation charts?

The primary purpose of navigation charts is to assist in navigation and route planning. These charts provide essential information for pilots, including airways, waypoints, and terrain features, which are critical for determining the safe and efficient routing of flights. By using these charts, pilots can make informed decisions about their flight paths, altitudes, and other navigational aspects, ensuring compliance with air traffic control instructions and optimizing flight safety.

The other options do not align with the primary function of navigation charts. While weather conditions are indeed crucial for flight safety and operations, they are typically represented on separate weather charts or reports. Recording flight hours pertains to administrative matters of flight operations, and maintaining maintenance logs is related to aircraft upkeep rather than navigation. Thus, navigation charts specifically serve the essential role of guiding pilots in their navigation and planning efforts during flights.