Definition
A physical, paper version of a checklist or other document that the pilot can hold and read in the cockpit, as opposed to a digital version displayed on a screen.
Plain English
A paper version of the checklist that you can hold in your hand, rather than one shown on a tablet or other electronic device.
Context Anchor
Seen in checklist discussions when comparing paper checklists with electronic checklists or other digital references.
Why Pilots Care
Provides a reliable backup if electronic devices fail or become unavailable.
Intuition Check
Do not read printed copy as just any paperwork in the airplane. In this context, it means a usable paper version of the checklist or procedure the pilot may need.
Example Sentence 1
Even though the checklist was loaded on the tablet, the pilot kept a printed copy in the seat pocket in case the screen failed.
Example Sentence 2
Even with an electronic flight bag in use, the regulations still required a printed copy as backup.