What is a checkout flight?

A checkout flight, or check flight, is a flight carried out with an instructor or with the owner before your first rental of the aircraft. It confirms that you are comfortable at the controls of that specific aircraft.

When it is required

It may be requested by the owner before the first use of their aircraft. This is a normal precaution: every aircraft has its own particularities, and the owner wants to make sure you take the controls with confidence.

How to know

The requirement for a checkout flight is shown on the aircraft's listing, in the rental conditions. So you know before booking whether a check flight will be necessary.