In terms of aircraft operations, what is required if the aircraft cannot glide to land?

When considering the requirement for aircraft operations if the aircraft cannot glide to land, having a flotation device is crucial, particularly for flights over large bodies of water. In the event of a water landing, a flotation device significantly increases the chances of survival for both crew and passengers. It serves as an essential safety measure, providing buoyancy and improving the prospects of life preservation in a situation where the aircraft cannot reach land.

A survival kit, while important for general emergency preparedness, is more comprehensive and does not specifically address the immediate need for flotation in an aquatic environment. An additional crew member might enhance operational capabilities or safety in certain scenarios, but it is not a direct requirement related to the inability to glide. Extra fuel supply can help extend flight time but does not address the issue of making an emergency landing on water. Hence, the emphasis on a flotation device is aligned with effective and practical safety protocols for flights over water.