Plain English Meaning

Able to do something well right now because you have practiced it recently and often enough to keep the skill sharp.

Full Definition

Possessing the current skill, knowledge, and judgment to perform a flight task reliably and safely to a defined standard, demonstrated through recent practice rather than past achievement.

Context Anchor

Used in training summaries, instructor evaluations, checkride preparation, and discussions of whether a pilot can safely perform a maneuver or procedure.

Derivation

From the Latin proficere, meaning 'to make progress' or 'to advance.' The aviation use carries that sense forward: being proficient is not a finish line but a you keep advancing in through ongoing practice.