When is a contaminated runway a restriction for an SIC conducting a takeoff or landing?

A contaminated runway represents a significant operational consideration for pilots, particularly during takeoffs and landings. The reasoning behind this is tied to the increased risk of reduced performance and handling characteristics associated with contaminated surfaces, such as those with ice, snow, or water.

The choice indicating that the restriction applies during the first 100 hours in type or 50 hours and 25 landings directly speaks to the competence and familiarity that a pilot develops with the aircraft over time. For pilots who are still relatively inexperienced on a specific aircraft type, executing maneuvers on a contaminated runway can pose a higher risk due to potential overconfidence or lack of familiarity with the aircraft's performance nuances in those conditions.

During the initial stages of flight experience in a specific aircraft type, it's essential for pilots to exercise greater caution, especially under challenging conditions like a contaminated runway. Therefore, the regulation aims to ensure that less experienced pilots remain within safer operational parameters until they have accumulated sufficient experience or have demonstrated their proficiency in more demanding conditions.

The other options, such as restrictions based on time of day or wind conditions, do not address the fundamental safety concern that arises from a lack of experience in handling an aircraft under the complexity of contaminated runway operations. This context highlights why the correct answer emphasizes