Definition
In the PAVE checklist, 'High' refers to the elevated end of a risk-assessment scale used to rate factors such as Pilot, Aircraft, enVironment, and External pressures. A factor rated High indicates that the level of risk associated with that element is significant enough to warrant strong mitigation, schedule changes, or a no-go decision.
Plain English
A 'High' rating means the risk in that area is serious. It is a warning that this part of the flight needs attention before going, and may be a reason not to fly at all.
Context Anchor
Seen in risk assessment tools such as the PAVE checklist, where a pilot rates items before deciding whether a flight is acceptable as planned.
Derivation
High comes from Old English words meaning tall or elevated. In this aviation context, it does not mean physical height; it means the amount of risk is elevated above an acceptable level.
Why Pilots Care
Labeling a factor as High prompts the pilot to apply extra mitigation steps or consider delaying or canceling the flight.
Intuition Check
Do not read High here as altitude or height above the ground. In this checklist, High means a raised level of risk that needs attention before continuing.
Example Sentence 1
After reviewing the weather, fatigue, and unfamiliar airport, the pilot rated the environmental risk as High and postponed the flight.
Example Sentence 2
After reviewing the PAVE items, the student realized fatigue placed the Pilot category in the High column.