What should you check before attempting to land on a short runway in calm wind conditions?

Before landing on a short runway in calm wind conditions, it's essential to check the distance required for takeoff. This is because the length of the runway directly impacts your ability to take off and land safely. In short runway situations, understanding the takeoff distance ensures you can take off safely without encountering obstacles if necessary. Knowing how much runway you need is critical, especially in calm winds where you may not have the benefit of wind assistance.

Regarding the other options, while the weather forecast can be important for planning your flights, it is less relevant in the context of landing on a short runway with calm winds. The aircraft weight and balance are crucial factors to consider for overall flight performance, but they are not specifically tied to the landing process on a short runway in calm conditions. Finally, while being aware of the flight paths of nearby aircraft is a good practice for overall situational awareness, it does not have a direct impact on your immediate need to ensure you can land safely on a short runway.