What is the first method suggested to avoid thunderstorms?

Flying around a thunderstorm is considered the safest and most effective method to avoid its hazards. Thunderstorms are known for producing severe weather phenomena such as turbulence, lightning, strong winds, and even hail, all of which can pose significant risks to aircraft and their occupants. By navigating around the storm, pilots can maintain safe airspeed and altitude without exposing the aircraft to these dangerous conditions.

This method also allows for the observation of the storm's behavior from a distance, providing pilots with the opportunity to make informed adjustments to their flight path. It is important to maintain situational awareness and to utilize available weather radar and reports to identify the boundaries of the storm and find the safest route.

The other options present alternatives that are generally less safe or practical. Flying through a thunderstorm can lead to extreme turbulence and aircraft damage. Flying over it might not always be feasible depending on the altitude of the storm and the aircraft's maximum operating altitude. Flying under the storm offers no guarantee of safety due to the potential for ground-level wind shears and flooding caused by heavy rainfall.