What is the expected conduct while operating near other aircraft?

The correct answer focuses on the essential principle of safety in aviation operations. When operating near other aircraft, it is crucial for operators to avoid creating a collision hazard. This means being aware of the positions and movements of surrounding aircraft, maintaining safe distances, and adhering to established air traffic rules and regulations. Operators should actively manage their trajectory and altitude to prevent any risk of collision, which is fundamental to maintaining safety in the airspace.

Other options do not correctly represent the best practices for aviation safety. Close proximity to maintain formation can be misleading, as it does not prioritize safety in various operational environments. Maintaining altitude without considering the actions of others may lead to dangerous situations where altitude alone does not suffice to avoid collisions. While coordination with ground control is important, it primarily pertains to operations on the ground rather than actions taken while airborne near other aircraft. Thus, the principle of avoiding collision hazards is the most appropriate and safety-focused approach when operating near other aircraft.