Plain English Meaning
The official flight test a student takes with an examiner to earn a pilot certificate or rating. It includes both an oral questioning portion on the ground and a flight portion in the aircraft.
Full Definition
An informal term for a practical test administered by an FAA inspector or designated pilot examiner to evaluate an applicant's knowledge and skill against the standards required for the issuance of a pilot certificate or rating.
Context Anchor
Pilots encounter this term near the end of training, when preparing to earn a certificate, add a rating, or complete instructor training.
Derivation
A of '' (to or ) and 'ride' (a trip in the aircraft). The word reflects exactly what happens: an examiner rides along to check that the applicant flies to .