Who typically has the authority to make the go/no-go decision for a flight?

• A. The Dispatcher makes the go/no-go decision
• B. The Aircraft Maintenance Officer makes the go/no-go decision
• C. The Pilot in Command or designated authority makes the go/no-go decision
• D. The Flight Attendant makes the go/no-go decision

Answer: (C)

Go/no-go decisions for a flight are made by the Pilot in Command or a person the PIC designates to make that call. The PIC holds the responsibility for the safety of the flight and must verify that the aircraft is airworthy, weather and field conditions are acceptable, fuel and load are within limits, crew readiness is satisfied, and all regulatory and SOP requirements are met. Delegation is possible to a designated authority, but the ultimate responsibility stays with the PIC. Other roles, like the Dispatcher, focus on planning and coordination; the Aircraft Maintenance Officer confirms maintenance status, not the final departure decision; and a Flight Attendant isn’t responsible for determining whether a flight can depart.