Definition
In flight training, the formal evaluations a student pilot must complete to demonstrate required knowledge and skill. These typically include the FAA knowledge test (a written or computer-based exam covering aeronautical subjects) and the practical test, also called the checkride, in which an examiner evaluates the applicant's flying skill and decision-making in the airplane and on the ground.
Plain English
The official exams a student pilot must pass to earn a certificate or rating. One is on a computer and covers the book knowledge. The other is in the airplane with an examiner who watches you fly and asks you questions.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight training, before-flight procedures, and evaluations where a pilot or instructor must confirm readiness or ability.
Derivation
Check comes from an old word connected with stopping or controlling something, as in making sure it cannot go wrong unnoticed. Test comes from a word for examining quality. Together, checks and tests means actions that confirm something is ready, correct, or acceptable.
Why Pilots Care
These procedures directly affect safety and regulatory compliance; skipping or rushing them increases risk of mechanical failure or in-flight issues.
Intuition Check
Do not read checks and tests as casual looking-over. In aviation, they are intentional confirmations that something meets the needed standard before you trust it.
Example Sentence 1
Before scheduling her checkride, she completed all the required checks and tests, including the FAA knowledge test.
Example Sentence 2
During the engine run-up, the instructor demonstrated the magneto checks and tests to confirm proper operation.