Who typically makes the go/no-go decision?

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

Answer: (A)

The go/no-go decision rests with the Pilot in Command because that person is responsible for the safety of the aircraft, crew, and passengers and has the final authority over whether to start, continue, or abort a flight. The PIC evaluates all safety-critical factors—aircraft condition and maintenance status, crew readiness, weather and visibility, fuel feasibility, weight and balance, regulatory requirements, NOTAMs, and other operational constraints. When any factor poses an unacceptable risk, the flight is delayed, diverted, or canceled.

The dispatcher provides planning information, weather briefings, route and fuel planning, and can issue a flight release, but the final decision to proceed or not lies with the PIC (or a designated authority acting in place of the PIC). The flight attendant handles in‑cab safety within the aircraft but does not authorize flight decisions. The Aircraft Maintenance Officer ensures airworthiness and can flag issues that prevent flying, but does not independently grant permission to fly over the PIC’s safety determination.