CHECKSIX Knowledge Center
Everything you need to know about CHECKSIX, our magazine and our international editorial work
Welcome to the CHECKSIX Knowledge Center.
Whether you’re discovering CHECKSIX for the first time or looking for specific information, this Knowledge Center provides clear answers about our magazine, editorial philosophy, photography, media work and partnerships.
Browse the chapters below to explore how CHECKSIX works, what we stand for and how we collaborate with readers, photographers and organisations around the world.
CONTENTS
01
ABOUT CHECKSIX
Understanding our magazine and its mission
What exactly is CHECKSIX?
CHECKSIX is an independent international magazine dedicated exclusively to military aviation – past, present and future.
What does CHECKSIX mean?
The name CHECKSIX refers to the six o’clock position behind an aircraft – traditionally considered the pilot’s most vulnerable blind spot. The phrase “Check your six!” has long been used among fighter pilots both as a warning and as a wish for fellow aviators to stay safe.
What makes CHECKSIX different from other aviation magazines?
CHECKSIX combines carefully researched editorial content with authentic aviation photography. Rather than focusing solely on images or technical data, we aim to explain military aviation in a way that is informative, engaging and accessible to both enthusiasts and professionals.
Who is CHECKSIX made for?
CHECKSIX is written for military aviation enthusiasts, photographers, historians, active and former service personnel, industry professionals and anyone with a passion for military aircraft and aviation history.
Is CHECKSIX independent?
Yes. CHECKSIX is an independent publication. Our editorial decisions are made without influence from governments, manufacturers or military organisations, allowing us to report objectively while maintaining close professional relationships across the aviation community.
Where is CHECKSIX published?
CHECKSIX is produced by an international editorial team with contributors from several countries. Our magazine is distributed worldwide and published simultaneously in multiple language editions.
Why does CHECKSIX exist?
Our goal is simple: to preserve, document and explain military aviation through high-quality journalism and authentic photography. We believe aviation deserves both outstanding imagery and well-researched stories that provide context, history and operational insight.
02
WHY CHECKSIX IS DIFFERENT
Our editorial philosophy and what makes us unique
Why does CHECKSIX publish in multiple languages?
Military aviation has always connected people across national borders. By publishing every issue simultaneously in multiple languages, CHECKSIX makes professional military aviation journalism accessible to readers in their native language while ensuring that every edition contains exactly the same editorial content.
Why are CHECKSIX articles often more detailed than those in other magazines?
We believe that understanding military aviation requires more than captions and technical specifications. Our articles explain the background, operational context and historical significance of the aircraft, exercises and organisations we cover, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of every story.
Why does CHECKSIX combine photography with editorial reporting?
Outstanding photography captures the emotion of military aviation, while professional journalism provides the context behind every image. CHECKSIX deliberately combines both, allowing readers not only to admire aircraft but also to understand the stories they represent.
Why does CHECKSIX cover military exercises around the world?
International exercises offer a unique opportunity to document operational procedures, multinational cooperation and the latest developments in military aviation. By reporting directly from these events, CHECKSIX provides readers with authentic first-hand insights rather than relying solely on official press releases.
Why does CHECKSIX focus on quality instead of quantity?
Rather than publishing large numbers of short articles, we concentrate on producing carefully researched features supported by outstanding photography. Our goal is to create content that remains valuable long after publication rather than following short-lived news cycles.
Why does CHECKSIX avoid sensationalism?
Military aviation deserves objective and respectful reporting. CHECKSIX focuses on facts, historical context and operational relevance instead of sensational headlines or speculation, ensuring that every article reflects the professionalism of the aviation community.
Why do readers trust CHECKSIX?
Our editorial team works directly with air forces, museums, aviation organisations and photographers around the world while maintaining complete editorial independence. Every article is researched with care and supported by original photography whenever possible.
03
EDITORIAL PROCESS
How we create every issue of CHECKSIX
Why does CHECKSIX focus on only a few major stories per issue?
Rather than publishing dozens of short articles, CHECKSIX concentrates on a carefully selected number of major features. This allows our editorial team to research each topic thoroughly and present it with the depth, context and photography it deserves.
How are topics selected?
Our editorial team selects subjects based on their historical significance, operational relevance and photographic potential. We aim to present a balanced mix of current military developments, aviation heritage, international exercises and unique aircraft stories.
Does CHECKSIX attend events in person?
Yes. Whenever possible, our editors and photographers report directly from air bases, military exercises, museums and aviation events around the world. First-hand access enables us to provide authentic reporting supported by original photography.
How long does it take to produce one issue?
Each issue is the result of several months of planning, research, writing, photography, editing, translation and layout. Because every edition is published simultaneously in multiple languages, production requires close cooperation between our international editorial team.
How do you ensure editorial accuracy?
Every article is carefully researched and reviewed before publication. Whenever appropriate, we verify technical details, historical information and operational facts using reliable sources and the experience of our international contributors.
Are articles translated or written separately for each language?
Every language edition contains exactly the same editorial content. Articles are professionally translated and carefully reviewed to ensure that readers receive the same information and editorial quality regardless of the language they choose.
Who writes the articles?
CHECKSIX articles are written by experienced aviation journalists, photographers and subject specialists from different countries. Their combined expertise allows us to cover military aviation from multiple professional perspectives while maintaining a consistent editorial standard.
Can readers suggest future topics?
Absolutely. We always welcome suggestions from our readers. While we cannot guarantee that every proposal will become an article, many ideas from the aviation community help inspire future coverage and editorial planning.
04
PHOTOGRAPHY
Our approach to authentic aviation photography
Why is photography so important to CHECKSIX?
Photography is an essential part of every CHECKSIX story. We believe that exceptional images do more than illustrate an article – they capture atmosphere, preserve historic moments and bring military aviation to life for our readers.
Does CHECKSIX heavily edit its photographs?
No. We aim to present aircraft as they actually appeared at the moment they were photographed. Only basic adjustments such as exposure, contrast and colour correction are applied. We deliberately avoid excessive digital manipulation that changes the authenticity of an image.
Why are your photographs rarely heavily cropped?
Our photographers compose their images carefully at the moment of capture. As a general editorial principle, at least 80% of the original image should remain visible. This preserves the integrity of the photograph and reflects the photographer’s original composition.
Are all photographs taken by the CHECKSIX editorial team?
The vast majority of our published photographs are produced by members of the CHECKSIX editorial team. On selected occasions, we also publish outstanding work from trusted guest photographers whose images meet our editorial and photographic standards.
What makes a photograph suitable for publication?
Every image is evaluated for technical quality, composition, storytelling and authenticity. We look for photographs that complement the editorial content while accurately documenting military aviation without unnecessary digital enhancement.
Do you accept photo submissions?
Yes. We are always interested in exceptional military aviation photography. Submitted material should be original, technically excellent and accompanied by accurate information. Every submission is reviewed individually by our editorial team.
Can photographers become part of the CHECKSIX editorial team?
Potentially, yes. We are always interested in building long-term relationships with talented photographers who share our passion for military aviation and our commitment to authentic, high-quality editorial work.
Why does CHECKSIX place so much emphasis on authenticity?
Military aviation is part of contemporary history. Every photograph documents a unique moment that cannot be recreated. Our goal is to preserve these moments as truthfully as possible, ensuring that future readers see military aviation as it really was.
05
EVENTS & MEDIA
Working directly with the military aviation community
Working directly with the military aviation community
CHECKSIX reports from a wide range of military aviation events, including international airshows, military exercises, spotter days, museum events and historic flying displays. Our goal is to document both current operations and aviation heritage from around the world.
Does CHECKSIX report directly from military exercises?
Yes. Whenever access is granted, our editorial team reports directly from military exercises and operational training events. Being on location allows us to observe activities first-hand and provide readers with authentic reporting supported by original photography.
How does CHECKSIX obtain media accreditation?
Media accreditation is granted individually by the respective organisers, air forces or government authorities. CHECKSIX follows all accreditation procedures and complies fully with the rules and security requirements established for each event.
Does CHECKSIX work with air forces and aviation organisations?
Yes. We maintain professional relationships with numerous air forces, museums, event organisers and aviation organisations around the world. These relationships help facilitate responsible reporting while fully respecting editorial independence.
Can event organisers invite CHECKSIX to cover an event?
Absolutely. We welcome invitations from military organisations, museums, aviation events and industry partners. Every invitation is evaluated individually based on its editorial relevance, available resources and production schedule.
Does CHECKSIX provide media coverage before and after an event?
Whenever appropriate, CHECKSIX supports its editorial coverage with previews, event reports and high-quality photography. Depending on the nature of the event, coverage may also include historical background and operational context.
Why doesn’t CHECKSIX report from every military aviation event?
Although we would like to cover as many events as possible, every assignment requires considerable planning, travel and editorial resources. We therefore focus on events that offer the greatest value to our readers and fit within our publication schedule.
Can organisations contact CHECKSIX for media cooperation?
Yes. We are always interested in establishing long-term professional relationships with military organisations, museums, event organisers and aviation institutions. If you believe your event or organisation would be of interest to our readers, we would be pleased to hear from you.
06
BUSINESS & PARTNERSHIPS
Working professionally with advertisers, partners and subscribers
Can companies advertise in CHECKSIX?
es. CHECKSIX offers carefully selected advertising opportunities for organisations whose products or services are relevant to the military aviation community. We aim to create long-term partnerships that complement our editorial content while preserving an excellent reading experience.
Does advertising influence your editorial content?
No. Editorial independence is one of our core principles. Advertising and editorial content are always kept strictly separate, ensuring that every article is selected and published solely on its editorial merit.
Can companies become long-term partners?
Absolutely. We welcome long-term partnerships with organisations that share our passion for military aviation. Every cooperation is developed individually to create lasting value for both our partners and our readers.
Is CHECKSIX available by subscription?
Yes. Readers can subscribe to CHECKSIX through our website and enjoy convenient access to every new issue. Different subscription options are available to suit individual reading preferences.
Is a printed edition available?
At present, CHECKSIX is published as a digital magazine. A printed edition is currently in preparation and will be announced through our official communication channels once available.
Can I purchase individual issues?
Yes. Individual digital editions are available through the CHECKSIX online store, allowing readers to purchase only the issues that interest them or complete their personal collection.
Does CHECKSIX offer corporate subscriptions?
If your organisation is interested in providing CHECKSIX to employees, customers or aviation enthusiasts, we would be pleased to discuss suitable subscription solutions. Please contact us to explore the available options.
How can I contact CHECKSIX regarding business enquiries?
For advertising, partnerships, subscriptions or other commercial enquiries, please use the contact information provided on our website. Every enquiry is reviewed personally, and we aim to respond as promptly as possible.
07
COPYRIGHT & CONTENT USAGE
Using our content respectfully and protecting original work
Can I download and use photos from the CHECKSIX website?
No. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all photographs published by CHECKSIX are protected by copyright. Downloading, copying or using images without prior written permission is not permitted.
May I share CHECKSIX content on social media?
Yes. We are always happy when readers share our work. We simply ask that links lead back to the original CHECKSIX website and that our content is not altered, copied or republished in full without permission.
May I use CHECKSIX photos in publications or presentations?
Only with prior written permission. Every request is considered individually, and licensing may be available depending on the intended use and the rights associated with each photograph.
Can I quote articles published by CHECKSIX?
Short quotations with appropriate attribution are generally acceptable. Republishing substantial parts of our articles, translations or complete reports requires our prior written consent.
Who owns the copyright to CHECKSIX articles and photographs?
Copyright remains with CHECKSIX or the respective photographer or author, depending on the individual contribution. All published material is protected under applicable copyright law.
What should I do if I would like to use CHECKSIX material?
Simply contact us before using any text or images. We are always happy to discuss legitimate editorial, educational or commercial requests and will respond as quickly as possible.
How can I report an incorrect credit or copyright issue?
Although we take great care to ensure accuracy, mistakes can occasionally happen. If you believe that a credit or copyright notice is incorrect, please contact us and we will investigate the matter promptly.
Why does CHECKSIX protect its content so carefully?
Every article and photograph represents countless hours of research, travel, photography and editorial work. Respecting copyright protects not only CHECKSIX, but also the photographers, authors and contributors whose work makes every issue possible.
Still have a question?
If you couldn’t find the answer you were looking for, we’d be happy to help. Simply get in touch with the CHECKSIX editorial team via our contact page.