What are "NO-GO" criteria in a checkride?

"NO-GO" criteria are essential standards established during a checkride that must be met for the flight to continue. If a pilot encounters a situation where these criteria are not satisfied, the checkride is halted to ensure safety and competency. This concept is grounded in aviation training and is crucial for ensuring that pilots demonstrate the necessary skills and decision-making abilities needed to operate an aircraft safely.

By establishing specific performance thresholds that must be achieved, "NO-GO" criteria help maintain rigorous safety standards. These criteria might relate to elements such as aircraft control, navigation, emergency procedures, or other critical operational aspects. If any of these benchmarks are not met, this serves as a clear indication that the pilot is not yet ready to proceed, highlighting the importance of preparedness in aviation operations.