AIM Text
- Flight check is a call sign used to alert pilots and air traffic controllers when a FAA aircraft is engaged in flight inspection/certification of NAVAIDs and flight procedures. Flight check aircraft fly preplanned high/low altitude flight patterns such as grids, orbits, DME arcs, and tracks, including low passes along the full length of the runway to verify NAVAID performance.
- Pilots should be especially watchful and avoid the flight paths of any aircraft using the call sign “Flight Check.” These flights will normally receive special handling from ATC. Pilot patience and cooperation in allowing uninterrupted recordings can significantly help expedite flight inspections, minimize costly, repetitive runs, and reduce the burden on the U.S. taxpayer.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 4-3-25.
The short answer
This AIM section is FAA advisory guidance explaining the “Flight Check” call sign, used to alert pilots and controllers that an FAA aircraft is flight-inspecting or certifying NAVAIDs and flight procedures. These aircraft fly preplanned grids, orbits, DME arcs, tracks, and low runway passes; pilots should watch for and avoid their flight paths.
Research Notes
Common Questions
What does the call sign “Flight Check” mean on the radio?
Per the AIM, “Flight Check” is a call sign that alerts pilots and air traffic controllers when an FAA aircraft is engaged in flight inspection or certification of NAVAIDs and flight procedures. These flights normally receive special handling from ATC.
What flight patterns do Flight Check aircraft fly?
The AIM states they fly preplanned high/low altitude patterns such as grids, orbits, DME arcs, and tracks, including low passes along the full length of the runway to verify NAVAID performance. Pilots should be especially watchful and avoid these flight paths.
Why should pilots cooperate with Flight Check operations?
The AIM notes that pilot patience and cooperation in allowing uninterrupted recordings can significantly help expedite flight inspections, minimize costly repetitive runs, and reduce the burden on the U.S. taxpayer.