Definition
A shorthand contraction used in NOTAMs and other aviation text to indicate that a specified item, condition, facility, or piece of information should be checked or verified.
Plain English
A short way of writing the word "check" in NOTAMs and aviation notices, telling the reader to look at or confirm something.
Context Anchor
Seen in condensed aviation text, checklist-style notes, maintenance notes, and abbreviation lists where common words are shortened.
Derivation
CK is a shortened written form of “check,” keeping the strong beginning and ending sounds of the word. The word “check” came to mean stopping to examine or verify something, which matches its aviation use.
Why Pilots Care
Using CK ensures critical preflight or enroute items receive deliberate verification rather than being assumed correct.
Intuition Check
Do not read CK as just a casual check mark or as “okay.” In aviation text, it means to verify, inspect, or confirm something.
Example Sentence 1
The NOTAM read "CK NOTAMS FOR RWY 27 CLOSURE," meaning the pilot should check the relevant NOTAMs for the runway closure.
Example Sentence 2
Before engine start the crew performed a CK of all circuit breakers and switches.