What is a Flight Check
A flight check (or pre-flight check) in printing refers to the process of reviewing and verifying digital files before we send them to production. The term is from the aviation industry, where a “pre-flight check” ensures an airplane is airworthy and ready for safe operation. Similarly, in the printing world, a flight check ensures that the digital files are “print-ready” and free of errors that could compromise the final output. Just as a pilot would check every system before flying, our studio and prepress check every element of a file before it “takes off” to production.
It must be noted that our Flight Check and Flag service is a ONE off technical check and we do not ‘proof’ the artwork for content, typos, colours etc without prior agreement. We do offer a proofing service, if this is something you require please do let us know.
We use professional dedicated preflight software, Enfocus PitStop, and human oversight which is essential for quality assurance.
RWP will provide a one off 10 point file checking procedure and will then report back with any elements that we feel need correcting.
If your job is urgent then please do send us a test file that may still be in the proofing stages at your end. Just save/export as a Press-ready PDF and we can provide feedback on this, rather than having to report in the last stages at the deadline date that the file is not going to print correctly.
What RWP will check:
1 – Pagination
2 – Orientation
3 – Document size
4 – File Format (e.g., PDF/X-1a)
5 – Trim and bleed
6 – Elements within the safety zone
7 – Check imagery and elements for resolution
8 – Colours we will convert RGB/Pantones to CMYK
9 – Fold lines
10 – Fonts (embedded or outlined)
If the file submitted has errors we then we will flag these to you and suggest you make the recommended changes. If the new file still has issues then we may well charge for the additional Flight Check. (estimated £34.50)
If you are unsure of how to make sure your files will print correctly then we offer a service to hand hold you through the process.
Special Cases
Some files need more technical help and checks than others. Please follow the templates and specifications provided with your quotation.
- Spot Varnish and Special Effects. These need a separate layer(s) usually set up as an extra colour
- Materials that need a cutting guide such as packaging, folders and shaped materials. These need a separate layer(s) usually set up as an extra colour
Where errors can occur
Transparency and Layers (we can’t always check these)
- Flatten transparencies to avoid unexpected results during printing.
- Ensure layers are merged or organised.
Overprint and Knockout (we can’t always check these)
- Verify that overprint settings are used correctly (e.g., for black text) and won’t cause unintended visual issues.
- Confirm knockouts are correctly applied where necessary.
Notes:
Remember we are here to help. Speak to us early in your design process so we can advise on all the aspects that ensure the job you receive is perfect from paper stock choices, to sizes and formats, to finishes such as laminating and embossing.
