Aeronautical Terms beginning with A

Abeam Fix

A fix, NAVAID, point, or object positioned approximately 90 degrees to the right or left of the aircraft track along a route of flight. Abeam indicates a general position rather than a precise point.

Accelerate-Stop Distance Available (ASDA)

The runway plus stopway length declared available and suitable for the acceleration and deceleration of an airplane aborting a takeoff.

Aircraft Approach Category

A grouping of aircraft based on reference landing speed (VREF), if specified, or if VREF is not specified, 1.3 Vso (the stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed in the landing configuration) at the maximum certificated landing weight.

Airport Diagram

A full-page depiction of the airport that includes the same features of the airport sketch plus additional details such as taxiway identifiers, airport latitude and longitude, and building identification. Airport diagrams are located in the U.S. Terminal Procedures booklet following the instrument approach charts for a particular airport.

Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD)

Regional booklets published by the National Aeronautical Charting Office. Title changed to Chart Supplement. (NACO) that provide textual information about all airports, both VFR and IFR. The A/FD includes runway length and width, runway surface, load bearing capacity, runway slope, airport services, and hazards such as birds and reduced visibility.

Airport Sketch

Depicts the runways and their length, width, and slope, the touchdown zone elevation, the lighting system installed on the end of the runway, and taxiways. Airport sketches are located on the lower left or right portion of the instrument approach chart.

Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC)

A facility established to provide air traffic control service to aircraft operating on IFR flight plans within controlled airspace and principally during the en route phase of flight

Air Traffic Service (ATS)

Air traffic service is an ICAO generic term meaning variously, flight information service, alerting service, air traffic advisory service, air traffic control service (area control service, approach control service, or aerodrome control service).

Approach End of Runway (AER)

The first portion of the runway available for landing. If the runway threshold is displaced, use the displaced threshold latitude/longitude as the AER.

Approach Fix

From a database coding standpoint, an approach fix is considered to be an identifiable point in space from the intermediate fix (IF) inbound. A fix located between the initial approach fix (IAF) and the IF is considered to be associated with the approach transition or feeder route.

Approach Gate

An imaginary point used by ATC to vector aircraft to the final approach course. The approach gate is established along the final approach course 1 NM from the final approach fix (FAF) on the side away from the airport and is located no closer than 5 NM from the landing threshold.

Area Navigation (RNAV)

A method of navigation that permits aircraft operations on any desired course within the coverage of station referenced navigation signals or within the limits of self contained system capability.

Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS)/Automated Weather Sens

The ASOS/AWSS is the primary surface weather observing system of the U.S.

Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS)

A weather observing system that provides minute-by-minute weather observations such as temperature, dew point, wind, altimeter setting, visibility, sky condition, and precipitation. Some ASOS stations include a precipitation discriminator which can differentiate between liquid and frozen precipitation.

Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS)

A suite of sensors which measure, collect, and disseminate weather data. AWOS stations provide a minute-by minute update of weather parameters such as wind speed and direction, temperature and dew point, visibility, cloud heights and types, precipitation, and barometric pressure. A variety of AWOS system types are available (from AWOS 1 to AWOS 3), each of which includes a different sensor array.

Automated Weather Sensor System (AWSS)

The AWSS is part of the Aviation Surface Weather Observation Network suite of programs and provides pilots and other users with weather information through the Automated Surface Observing System. The AWSS sensor suite automatically collects, measures, processes, and broadcasts surface weather data.

Automated Weather System

Any of the automated weather sensor platforms that collect weather data at airports and disseminate the weather information via radio and/or landline. The systems currently consist of the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS), Automated Weather Sensor System (AWSS) and Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS).

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B)

A surveillance system that continuously broadcasts GPS position information, aircraft identification, altitude, velocity vector, and direction to all other aircraft and air traffic control facilities within a specific area. Automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) information will be displayed in the cockpit via a cockpit display of traffic information (CDTI) unit, providing the pilot with greater situational awareness. ADS-B transmissions will also provide controllers with a more complete picture of traffic and will update that information more frequently than other surveillance equipment.

Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS)

A recorded broadcast available at most airports with an operating control tower that includes crucial information about runways and instrument approaches in use, specific outages, and current weather conditions, including visibility.

Absolute Altitude

The vertical distance of an airplane above the terrain, or above ground level (AGL).

Absolute Ceiling

The altitude at which a climb is no longer possible.

Accelerate-Go Distance

The distance required to accelerate to V1 with all engines at takeoff power, experience an engine failure at V1, and continue the takeoff on the remaining engine(s). The runway required includes the distance required to climb to 35 feet by which time V2 speed must be attained.

Accelerate-Stop Distance

The distance required to accelerate to V1 with all engines at takeoff power, experience an engine failure at V1, and abort the takeoff and bring the airplane to a stop using braking action only (use of thrust reversing is not considered).

Acceleration

Force involved in overcoming inertia, and which may be defined as a change in velocity per unit of time.

Accessories

Components that are used with an engine, but are not a part of the engine itself. Units such as magnetos, carburetors, generators, and fuel pumps are commonly installed engine accessories.

Adjustable Stabilizer

A stabilizer that can be adjusted in flight to trim the airplane, thereby allowing the airplane to fly hands-off at any given airspeed.

Adverse Yaw

A condition of flight in which the nose of an airplane tends to yaw toward the outside of the turn. This is caused by the higher induced drag on the outside wing, which is also producing more lift. Induced drag is a by-product of the lift associated with the outside wing.

Aerodynamic Ceiling

The point (altitude) at which, as the indicated airspeed decreases with altitude, it progressively merges with the low speed buffet boundary where pre-stall buffet occurs for the airplane at a load factor of 1.0 G.

Aerodynamics

The science of the action of air on an object, and with the motion of air on other gases. Aerodynamics deals with the production of lift by the aircraft, the relative wind, and the atmosphere.

Ailerons

Primary flight control surfaces mounted on the trailing edge of an airplane wing, near the tip. Ailerons control roll about the longitudinal axis.

Air Start

The act or instance of starting an aircraft’s engine while in flight, especially a jet engine after flameout.

Aircraft Logbooks

Journals containing a record of total operating time, repairs, alterations or inspections performed, and all Airworthiness Directive (AD) notes complied with. A maintenance logbook should be kept for the airframe, each engine, and each propeller.

Airfoil

An airfoil is any surface, such as a wing, propeller, rudder, or even a trim tab, which provides aerodynamic force when it interacts with a moving stream of air.

Airmanship

A sound acquaintance with the principles of flight, the ability to operate an airplane with competence and precision both on the ground and in the air, and the exercise of sound judgment that results in optimal operational safety and efficiency.

Airmanship Skills

The skills of coordination, timing, control touch, and speed sense in addition to the motor skills required to fly an aircraft.

Airplane Flight Manual (AFM)

A document developed by the airplane manufacturer and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It is specific to a particular make and model airplane by serial number and it contains operating procedures and limitations.

Airplane Owner/ Information Manual

A document developed by the airplane manufacturer containing general information about the make and model of an airplane. The airplane owner’s manual is not FAA-approved and is not specific to a particular serial numbered airplane. This manual is not kept current, and therefore cannot be substituted for the AFM/POH.

Airport/Facility Directory

A publication designed primarily as a pilot’s operational manual containing all airports, seaplane bases, and heliports open to the public including communications data, navigational facilities, and certain special notices and procedures. This publication is issued in seven volumes according to geographical area. (Renamed to Chart Supplement)

Airworthiness

A condition in which the aircraft conforms to its type certificated design including supplemental type certificates, and field approved alterations. The aircraft must also be in a condition for safe flight as determined by annual, 100 hour, preflight and any other required inspections.

Airworthiness Certificate

A certificate issued by the FAA to all aircraft that have been proven to meet the minimum standards set down by the Code of Federal Regulations.

Airworthiness Directive

A regulatory notice sent out by the FAA to the registered owner of an aircraft informing the owner of a condition that prevents the aircraft from continuing to meet its conditions for airworthiness. Airworthiness Directives (AD notes) must be complied with within the required time limit, and the fact of compliance, the date of compliance, and the method of compliance must be recorded in the aircraft’s maintenance records.

Alpha Mode Of Operation

The operation of a turboprop engine that includes all of the flight operations, from takeoff to landing. Alpha operation is typically between 95 percent to 100 percent of the engine operating speed.

Alternate Air

A device which opens, either automatically or manually, to allow induction airflow to continue should the primary induction air opening become blocked.

Alternate Static Source

A manual port that when opened allows the pitot static instruments to sense static pressure from an alternate location should the primary static port become blocked.

Alternator/Generator

A device that uses engine power to generate electrical power.

Altimeter

A flight instrument that indicates altitude by sensing pressure changes.

Altitude (AGL)

The actual height above ground level (AGL) at which the aircraft is flying.

Altitude (MSL)

The actual height above mean sea level (MSL) at which the aircraft is flying.

Altitude Chamber

A device that simulates high altitude conditions by reducing the interior pressure. The occupants will suffer from the same physiological conditions as flight at high altitude in an unpressurized aircraft.

Altitude Engine

A reciprocating aircraft engine having a rated takeoff power that is producible from sea level to an established higher altitude.

Angle Of Attack

The acute angle between the chord line of the airfoil and the direction of the relative wind.

Angle Of Incidence

The angle formed by the chord line of the wing and a line parallel to the longitudinal axis of the airplane.

Annual Inspection

A complete inspection of an aircraft and engine, required by the Code of Federal Regulations, to be accomplished every 12 calendar months on all certificated aircraft. Only an A&P technician holding an Inspection Authorization can conduct an annual inspection.

Anti-Icing

The prevention of the formation of ice on a surface. Ice may be prevented by using heat or by covering the surface with a chemical that prevents water from reaching the surface. Anti-icing should not be confused with deicing, which is the removal of ice after it has formed on the surface.

Attitude

The position of an aircraft as determined by the relationship of its axes and a reference, usually the earth’s horizon.

Attitude Indicator

An instrument which uses an artificial horizon and miniature airplane to depict the position of the airplane in relation to the true horizon. The attitude indicator senses roll pitch, which is the up and down as well as movement of the airplane’s nose.

Autokinesis

This is caused by staring at a single point of light against a dark background for more than a few seconds. After a few moments, the light appears to move on its own.

Autopilot

An automatic flight control system which keeps an aircraft in level flight or on a set course. Automatic pilots can be directed by the pilot, or they may be coupled to a radio navigation signal.

Axes Of An Aircraft

Three imaginary lines that pass through an aircraft’s center of gravity. The axes can be considered as imaginary axles around which the aircraft turns. The three axes pass through the center of gravity at 90°angles to each other. The axis from nose to tail is the longitudinal axis, the axis that passes from wingtip to wingtip is the lateral axis, and the axis that passes vertically through the center of gravity is the vertical axis.

Axial Flow Compressor

A type of compressor used in a turbine engine in which the airflow through the compressor is essentially linear. An axial-flow compressor is made up of several stages of alternate rotors and stators. The compressor ratio is determined by the decrease in area of the succeeding stages.

Absolute accuracy

The ability to determine present position in space independently, and is most often used by pilots.

Absolute altitude

The actual distance between an aircraft and the terrain over which it is flying.

Absolute pressure

Pressure measured from the reference of zero pressure, or a vacuum.

Acceleration error

A magnetic compass error apparent when the aircraft accelerates while flying on an easterly or westerly heading, causing the compass card to rotate toward North.

Accelerometer

A part of an inertial navigation system (INS) that accurately measures the force of acceleration in one direction.

Adverse yaw

A flight condition at the beginning of a turn in which the nose of the aircraft starts to move in the direction opposite the direction the turn is being made, caused by the induced drag produced by the downward-deflected aileron holding back the wing as it begins to rise.

Aeronautical decision-making (ADM)

A systematic approach to the mental process used by pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances.

Agonic line

An irregular imaginary line across the surface of the Earth along which the magnetic and geographic poles are in alignment, and along which there is no magnetic variation.

Aircraft approach category

A performance grouping of aircraft based on a speed of 1.3 times the stall speed in the landing configuration at maximum gross landing weight.

Air data computer (ADC)

An aircraft computer that receives and processes pitot pressure, static pressure, and temperature to calculate very precise altitude, indicated airspeed, true airspeed, and air temperature.

Airport diagram

The section of an instrument approach procedure chart that shows a detailed diagram of the airport. This diagram includes surface features and airport configuration information.

Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD)

An FAA publication containing information on all airports, communications, and NAVAIDs. Title changed to Chart Supplement.

Airport surface detection equipment (ASDE)

Radar equipment specifically designed to detect all principal features and traffic on the surface of an airport, presenting the entire image on the control tower console; used to augment visual observation by tower personnel of aircraft and/or vehicular movements on runways and taxiways.

Airport surveillance radar (ASR)

Approach control radar used to detect and display an aircrafts position in the terminal area.

Airport surveillance radar approach

An instrument approach in which ATC issues instructions for pilot compliance based on aircraft position in relation to the final approach course and the distance from the end of the runway as displayed on the controllers radar scope.

Air route surveillance radar (ARSR)

Air route traffic control center (ARTCC) radar used primarily to detect and display an aircrafts position while en route between terminal areas.

Air route traffic control center (ARTCC)

Provides ATC service to aircraft operating on IFR flight plans within controlled airspace and principally during the en route phase of flight.

Airspeed indicator

A differential pressure gauge that measures the dynamic pressure of the air through which the aircraft is flying. Displays the crafts airspeed, typically in knots, to the pilot.

Air traffic control radar beacon system (ATCRBS).

Sometimes called secondary surveillance radar (SSR), which utilizes a transponder in the aircraft. The ground equipment is an interrogating unit, in which the beacon antenna is mounted so it rotates with the surveillance antenna. The interrogating unit transmits a coded pulse sequence that actuates the aircraft transponder. The transponder answers the coded sequence by transmitting a preselected coded sequence back to the ground equipment, providing a strong return signal and positive aircraft identification, as well as other special data.

Airway

An airway is based on a centerline that extends from one navigation aid or intersection to another navigation aid (or through several navigation aids or intersections); used to establish a known route for en route procedures between terminal areas.

Alert area

An area in which there is a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aeronautical activity.

Almanac data

Information the global positioning system (GPS) receiver can obtain from one satellite which describes the approximate orbital positioning of all satellites in the constellation. This information is necessary for the GPS receiver to know what satellites to look for in the sky at a given time.

Alternate airport

An airport designated in an IFR flight plan, providing a suitable destination if a landing at the intended airport becomes inadvisable.

Alternate static source valve

A valve in the instrument static air system that supplies reference air pressure to the altimeter, airspeed indicator, and vertical speed indicator if the normal static pickup should become clogged or iced over.

Altimeter setting

Station pressure (the barometric pressure at the location the reading is taken) which has been corrected for the height of the station above sea level.

Amendment status

The circulation date and revision number of an instrument approach procedure, printed above the procedure identification.

Ammeter

An instrument installed in series with an electrical load used to measure the amount of current flowing through the load.

Aneroid

The sensitive component in an altimeter or barometer that measures the absolute pressure of the air. It is a sealed, flat capsule made of thin disks of corrugated metal soldered together and evacuated by pumping all of the air out of it.

Aneroid barometer

An instrument that measures the absolute pressure of the atmosphere by balancing the weight of the air above it against the spring action of the aneroid.

Angle of attack

The acute angle formed between the chord line of an airfoil and the direction of the air striking the airfoil.

Anti-ice

Preventing the accumulation of ice on an aircraft structure via a system designed for that purpose.

Approach lighting system (ALS)

Provides lights that will penetrate the atmosphere far enough from touchdown to give directional, distance, and glide path information for safe transition from instrument to visual flight.

Area chart

Part of the low-altitude en route chart series, this chart furnishes terminal data at a larger scale for congested areas.

Area navigation (RNAV)

Allows a pilot to fly a selected course to a predetermined point without the need to overfly ground-based navigation facilities, by using waypoints.

Atmospheric propagation delay

A bending of the electromagnetic (EM) wave from the satellite that creates an error in the GPS system.

Attitude and heading reference systems (AHRS)

System composed of three-axis sensors that provide heading, attitude, and yaw information for aircraft. AHRS are designed to replace traditional mechanical gyroscopic flight instruments and provide superior reliability and accuracy.

Attitude director indicator (ADI)

An aircraft attitude indicator that incorporates flight command bars to provide pitch and roll commands.

Attitude indicator

The foundation for all instrument flight, this instrument reflects the airplanes attitude in relation to the horizon.

Attitude instrument flying

Controlling the aircraft by reference to the instruments rather than by outside visual cues.

Autokinesis

Nighttime visual illusion that a stationary light is moving, which becomes apparent after several seconds of staring at the light.

Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS).

Automated weather reporting system consisting of various sensors, a processor, a computer-generated voice subsystem, and a transmitter to broadcast weather data.

Automated Surface Observing Station (ASOS)

Weather reporting system which provides surface observations every minute via digitized voice broadcasts and printed reports.

Automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADS-B)

A device used in aircraft that repeatedly broadcasts a message that includes position (such as latitude, longitude, and altitude), velocity, and possibly other information.

Automatic direction finder (ADF)

Electronic navigation equipment that operates in the low- and medium-frequency bands. Used in conjunction with the ground-based nondirectional beacon (NDB), the instrument displays the number of degrees clockwise from the nose of the aircraft to the station being received.

Automatic terminal information service (ATIS)

The continuous broadcast of recorded non-control information in selected terminal areas. Its purpose is to improve controller effectiveness and relieve frequency congestion by automating repetitive transmission of essential but routine information.

Aviation medical examiner (AME)

A physician with training in aviation medicine designated by the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI).

Azimuth card

A card that may be set, gyroscopically controlled, or driven by a remote compass.

Abstractions

Words that are general rather than specific. Aircraft is an abstraction; airplane is less abstract; jet is more specific; and jet airliner is still more specific.

Aeronautical decision-making (ADM)

A systematic approach to the mental process used by aircraft pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances.

Affective domain

A grouping of levels of learning associated with a person’s attitudes, personal beliefs, and values which range from receiving through responding, valuing, and organization to characterization.

Air traffic control (ATC)

A service provided by the FAA to promote the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.

Aircraft checkouts

An instructional program designed to familiarize and qualify a pilot to act as pilot in command of a particular aircraft type.

Anxiety

Mental discomfort that arises from the fear of anything, real or imagined. May have a potent effect on actions and the ability to learn from perceptions.

Application

A basic level of learning at which the student puts something to use that has been learned and understood.

Application step

The third step of the teaching process, where the student performs the procedure or demonstrates the knowledge required in the lesson. In the telling-and-doing technique of flight instruction, this step consists of the student doing the procedure while explaining it.

Area of operation

A phase of the practical test within the PTS.

Attitude

A personal motivational predisposition to respond to persons, situations, or events in a given manner that can, nevertheless, be changed or modified through training as a sort of mental shortcut to decision-making.

Attitude management

The ability to recognize one’s own hazardous attitudes and the willingness to modify them as

Authentic assessment

An assessment in which the student is asked to perform real-world tasks, and demonstrate a meaningful application of skills and competencies.

Administrator

The Federal Aviation Administrator or any person to whom he has delegated his authority in the matter concerned.

Aerodynamic coefficients

Non-dimensional coefficients for aerodynamic forces and moments.

Air carrier

A person who undertakes directly by lease, or other arrangement, to engage in air transportation.

Air commerce

Interstate, overseas, or foreign air commerce or the transportation of mail by aircraft or any operation or navigation of aircraft within the limits of any Federal airway or any operation or navigation of aircraft which directly affects, or which may endanger safety in, interstate, overseas, or foreign air commerce.

Aircraft

A device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air.

Aircraft engine

An engine that is used or intended to be used for propelling aircraft. It includes turbosuperchargers, appurtenances, and accessories necessary for its functioning, but does not include propellers.

Airframe

The fuselage, booms, nacelles, cowlings, fairings, airfoil surfaces (including rotors but excluding propellers and rotating airfoils of engines), and landing gear of an aircraft and their accessories and controls.

Airplane

An engine-driven fixed-wing aircraft heavier than air, that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its wings.

Airport

An area of land or water that is used or intended to be used for the landing and takeoff of aircraft, and includes its buildings and facilities, if any.

Airship

An engine-driven lighter-than-air aircraft that can be steered.

Air traffic

Aircraft operating in the air or on an airport surface, exclusive of loading ramps and parking areas.

Air traffic clearance

An authorization by air traffic control, for the purpose of preventing collision between known aircraft, for an aircraft to proceed under specified traffic conditions within controlled airspace.

Air traffic control

A service operated by appropriate authority to promote the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.

Air Traffic Service (ATS) route

A specified route designated for channeling the flow of traffic as necessary for the provision of air traffic services. The term “ATS route” refers to a variety of airways, including jet routes, area navigation (RNAV) routes, and arrival and departure routes. An ATS route is defined by route specifications, which may include:
(1) An ATS route designator;
(2) The path to or from significant points;
(3) Distance between significant points;
(4) Reporting requirements; and
(5) The lowest safe altitude determined by the appropriate authority.

Air transportation

Interstate, overseas, or foreign air transportation or the transportation of mail by aircraft.

Alert Area

An alert area is established to inform pilots of a specific area wherein a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aeronautical activity is conducted.

Alternate airport

An airport at which an aircraft may land if a landing at the intended airport becomes inadvisable.

Altitude engine

A reciprocating aircraft engine having a rated takeoff power that is producible from sea level to an established higher altitude.

Amateur rocket

An unmanned rocket that:
(1) Is propelled by a motor or motors having a combined total impulse of 889,600 Newton-seconds (200,000 pound-seconds) or less; and
(2) Cannot reach an altitude greater than 150 kilometers (93.2 statute miles) above the earth’s surface.

Appliance

Any instrument, mechanism, equipment, part, apparatus, appurtenance, or accessory, including communications equipment, that is used or intended to be used in operating or controlling an aircraft in flight, is installed in or attached to the aircraft, and is not part of an airframe, engine, or propeller.

Approved

Unless used with reference to another person, approved by the FAA or any person to whom the FAA has delegated its authority in the matter concerned, or approved under the provisions of a bilateral agreement between the United States and a foreign country or jurisdiction.

Area navigation (RNAV)

A method of navigation that permits aircraft operations on any desired flight path.

Area navigation (RNAV) route

An ATS route based on RNAV that can be used by suitably equipped aircraft.

Armed Forces

The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, including their regular and reserve components and members serving without component status.

Autorotation

A rotorcraft flight condition in which the lifting rotor is driven entirely by action of the air when the rotorcraft is in motion.

Auxiliary rotor

A rotor that serves either to counteract the effect of the main rotor torque on a rotorcraft or to maneuver the rotorcraft about one or more of its three principal axes.

Adverse Loaded CG Check

A weight and balance check to determine that no condition of legal loading of an aircraft can move the CG outside of its allowable limits.

Aircraft Specifications

Documentation containing the pertinent specifications for aircraft certificated under the CARs.

Airplane Flight Manual (AFM)

An FAA-approved document, prepared by the holder of a Type Certificate for an aircraft, that specifies the operating limitations and contains the required markings and placards and other information applicable to the regulations under which the aircraft was certificated.

Approved Type Certificate

A certificate of approval issued by the FAA for the design of an aircraft, engine, or propeller.

Arm

(GAMA) The horizontal distance from the reference datum to the center of gravity (CG) of an item. The algebraic sign is plus (+) if measured aft of the datum or to the right side of the center line when considering a lateral calculation. The algebraic sign is minus (-) if measured forward of the datum or the left side of the center line when considering a lateral calculation.

Absolute instability

A state of a layer within the atmosphere in which the vertical distribution of temperature is such that an air parcel, if given an upward or downward push, wiII move away from its initial level without further outside force being applied.

Absolute temperature scale

Kelvin Temperature Scale. A temperature scale with zero degrees equal to the temperature at which all molecular motion ceases, i.e., absolute zero (0° K = -273° C); the Kelvin degree is identical to the Celsius degree; hence at standard sea level pressure, the melting point is 273° K and the boiling point 373° K.

Adiabatic process

The process by which fixed relationships are maintained during changes in temperature, volume, and pressure in a body of air without heat being added or removed from the body.

Advection

The horizontal transport of air or atmospheric properties. In meteorology, sometimes referred to as the horizontal component of convection.

Advection fog

Fog resulting from the transport of warm, humid air over a cold surface.

Air density

The mass density of the air in terms of weight per unit volume.

Air mass

In meteorology, an extensive body of air within which the conditions of temperature and moisture in a horizontal plane are essentially uniform.

Air mass classification

A system used to identify and to characterize the different air masses according to a basic scheme. The system most commonly used classifies air masses primarily according to the thermal properties of their source regions: “tropical” (T); “polar” (P); and “Arctic” or “Antarctic” (A). They are further classified according to moisture characteristics as “continental” (c) or “maritime” (m).

Air parcel

A. small volume of air, small enough to contain uniform distribution of its meteorological properties, and large enough to remain relatively self-contained and respond to all meteorological processes. No specific dimensions have been defined, however, the order of magnitude of 1 cubic foot has been suggested.

Albedo

The ratio of the amount of electromagnetic radiation reflected by a body to the amount incident upon it, commonly expressed in percentage; in meteorology, usually used in reference to insolation (solar radiation); i.e., the albedo of wet sand is 9, meaning that about 9% of the incident insolation is reflected; albedoes of other surfaces range upward to 80-85 for fresh snow cover; average albedo for the earth and its atmosphere has been calculated to range from 35 to 43.

Altimeter

An instrument which determines the altitude of an object with respect to a fixed level. A pressure altimeter.

Altimeter setting

The value to which the scale of a pressure altimeter is set so as to read true altitude at field elevation.

Altimeter setting indicator

A precision aneroid barometer calibrated to indicate directly the altimeter setting.

Altitude

Height expressed in units of distance above a reference plane, usually above mean sea level or above ground.

Altocumulus

White or gray layers or patches of cloud, often with a waved appearance; cloud elements appear as rounded masses or rolls; composed mostly of liquid water droplets which may be supercooled; may contain ice crystals at subfreezing temperatures.

Altocumulus castellanus

A species of middle cloud of which at least a fraction of its upper part presents some vertically developed, cumuliform protuberances (some of which are taller than they are wide, as castles) and which give the cloud a crenelated or turreted appearance; especially evident when seen from the side; elements usually have a common base arranged in lines. This cloud indicates instability and turbulence at the altitudes of occurrence.

Anemometer

An instrument for measuring wind speed.

Aneroid barometer

A barometer which operates on the principle of having changing atmospheric pressure bend a metallic surface which, in turn, moves a pointer across a scale graduated in units of pressure.

Angel

In radar meteorology, an echo caused by physical phenomena not discernible to the eye; they have been observed when abnormally strong temperature and/or moisture gradients were known to exist; sometimes attributed to insects or birds flying in the radar beam.

Anomalous propagation (sometimes called A P )

In radar meteorology, the greater than normal bending of the radar beam such that echoes are received from ground targets at distances greater than normal ground clutter.

Anticyclone

An area of high atmospheric pressure which has a closed circulation that is anticyclonic, i.e., as viewed from above, the circulation is clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere, counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere, undefined at the Equator.

Anvil cloud

Popular name given to the top portion of a cumulonimbus cloud having an anvil-like form.

APOB

A sounding made by an aircraft.

Arctic air

An air mass with characteristics developed mostly in winter over Arctic surfaces of ice and snow. Arctic air extends to great heights, and the surface temperatures are basically, but not always, lower than those of polar air.

Arctic front

The surface of discontinuity between very cold (Arctic) air flowing directly from the Arctic region and another less cold and, consequently, less dense air mass.

Atmosphere

The mass of air surrounding the Earth.

Atmospheric pressure (also called barometric pressure)

The pressure exerted by the atmosphere as a consequence of gravitational attraction exerted upon the “column” of air lying directly above the point in question.

Atmospherics

Disturbing effects produced in radio receiving apparatus by atmospheric electrical phenomena such as an electrical storm. Static.

Aurora

A luminous, radiant emission over middle and high latitudes confined to the thin air of high altitudes and centered over the earth’s magnetic poles. Called “aurora borealis” (northern lights) or “aurora australis” according to its occurrence in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere, respectively.

Attenuation

In radar meteorology, any process which reduces power density in radar signals.

Astronomical twilight

The period of time before sunrise and after sunset when the sun is not more than 18° below the horizon.

Absolute vorticity

The rotation of the Earth imparts vorticity to the atmosphere; absolute vorticity is the combined vorticity due to this rotation and vorticity due to circulation relative to the Earth (relative vorticity).

Absolute accuracy

The ability to determine present position in space independently, and is most often used by pilots.

Absolute altitude

The actual distance between an aircraft and the terrain over which it is flying.

Absolute pressure

Pressure measured from the reference of zero pressure, or a vacuum.

Acceleration

Force involved in overcoming inertia, and which may be defined as a change in velocity per unit of time.

Acceleration error

A magnetic compass error apparent when the aircraft accelerates while flying on an easterly or westerly heading, causing the compass card to rotate toward North.

Accelerate-go distance

Accelerate-stop distance

Accelerometer

A part of an inertial navigation system (INS) that accurately measures the force of acceleration in one direction.

Adiabatic cooling

A process of cooling the air through expansion. For example, as air moves up slope it expands with the reduction of atmospheric pressure and cools as it expands.

Adiabatic heating

A process of heating dry air through compression. For example, as air moves down a slope it is compressed, which results in an increase in temperature.

Adjustable-pitch propeller

A propeller with blades whose pitch can be adjusted on the ground with the engine not running, but which cannot be adjusted in flight. Also referred to as a ground adjustable propeller. Sometimes also used to refer to constant-speed propellers that are adjustable in flight.

Adjustable stabilizer

A stabilizer that can be adjusted in flight to trim the airplane, thereby allowing the airplane to fly hands-off at any given airspeed.

Advection fog

Fog resulting from the movement of warm, humid air over a cold surface.

Adverse yaw

Aerodynamics

The science of the action of air on an object, and with the motion of air on other gases. Aerodynamics deals with the production of lift by the aircraft, the relative wind, and the atmosphere.

Aeronautical chart

A map used in air navigation containing all or part of the following: topographic features, hazards and obstructions, navigation aids, navigation routes, designated airspace, and airports.

Aeronautical decision-making (ADM)

A systematic approach to the mental process used by pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances.

Agonic line

An irregular imaginary line across the surface of the Earth along which the magnetic and geographic poles are in alignment, and along which there is no magnetic variation.

Ailerons

Primary flight control surfaces mounted on the trailing edge of an airplane wing, near the tip. Ailerons control roll about the longitudinal axis.

Aircraft

A device that is used, or intended to be used, for flight.

Aircraft altitude

The actual height above sea level at which the aircraft is flying.

Aircraft approach category

A performance grouping of aircraft based on a speed of 1.3 times the stall speed in the landing configuration at maximum gross landing weight.

Air data computer (ADC)

An aircraft computer that receives and processes pitot pressure, static pressure, and temperature to calculate very precise altitude, indicated airspeed, true airspeed, and air temperature.

Airfoil

Any surface, such as a wing, propeller, rudder, or even a trim tab, which provides aerodynamic force when it interacts with a moving stream of air.

Air mass

An extensive body of air having fairly uniform properties of temperature and moisture.

Airplane

An engine-driven, fixed-wing aircraft heavier than air that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of air against its wings.

Airplane Flight Manual (AFM)

Airplane Owner/Information Manual

A document developed by the airplane manufacturer containing general information about the make and model of an airplane. The airplane owner’s manual is not FAA approved and is not specific to a particular serial numbered airplane. This manual is not kept current, and therefore cannot be substituted for the AFM/POH.

Airport diagram

The section of an instrument approach procedure chart that shows a detailed diagram of the airport. This diagram includes surface features and airport configuration information.

Airport/Facility Directory (A/FD)

An FAA publication containing information on all airports, communications, and NAVAIDs. Title changed to Chart Supplement.

Airport surface detection equipment (ASDE)

Airport surveillance radar (ASR)

Approach control radar used to detect and display an aircraft’s position in the terminal area.

Airport surveillance radar approach

Air route surveillance radar (ARSR)

Air route traffic control center (ARTCC) radar used primarily to detect and display an aircraft’s position while en route between terminal areas.

Air route traffic control center (ARTCC)

Provides ATC service to aircraft operating on IFR flight plans within controlled airspace and principally during the en route phase of flight.

Airspeed

Rate of the aircraft’s progress through the air.

Airspeed indicator

A differential pressure gauge that measures the dynamic pressure of the air through which the aircraft is flying. Displays the craft’s airspeed, typically in knots, to the pilot.

Air traffic control radar beacon system (ATCRBS)

Airway

Airworthiness Certificate

A certificate issued by the FAA to all aircraft that have been proven to meet the minimum standards set down by the Code of Federal Regulations.

Airworthiness Directive

A regulatory notice sent out by the FAA to the registered owner of an aircraft informing the owner of a condition that prevents the aircraft from continuing to meet its conditions for airworthiness. Airworthiness Directives (AD notes) are to be complied with within the required time limit, and the fact of compliance, the date of compliance, and the method of compliance are recorded in the aircraft’s maintenance records.

Alert area

An area in which there is a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aeronautical activity.

Almanac data

Alternate airport

An airport designated in an IFR flight plan, providing a suitable destination if a landing at the intended airport becomes inadvisable.

Alternate static source valve

Altimeter

A flight instrument that indicates altitude by sensing pressure changes.

Altimeter setting

Station pressure (the barometric pressure at the location the reading is taken) which has been corrected for the height of the station above sea level.

Altitude engine

A reciprocating aircraft engine having a rated takeoff power that is producible from sea level to an established higher altitude.

Ambient pressure

The pressure in the area immediately surrounding the aircraft.

Ambient temperature

The temperature in the area immediately surrounding the aircraft.

Amendment status

The circulation date and revision number of an instrument approach procedure, printed above the procedure identification.

Ammeter

An instrument installed in series with an electrical load used to measure the amount of current flowing through the load.

Aneroid

Aneroid barometer

An instrument that measures the absolute pressure of the atmosphere by balancing the weight of the air above it against the spring action of the aneroid.

Angle of attack

The acute angle formed between the chord line of an airfoil and the direction of the air striking the airfoil.

Angle of incidence

The angle formed by the chord line of the wing and a line parallel to the longitudinal axis of the airplane.

Anhedral

A downward slant from root to tip of an aircraft’s wing or horizontal tail surface.

Annual inspection

Anti-ice

Preventing the accumulation of ice on an aircraft structure via a system designed for that purpose.

Antiservo tab

An adjustable tab attached to the trailing edge of a stabilator that moves in the same direction as the primary control. It is used to make the stabilator less sensitive.

Approach lighting system (ALS)

Provides lights that will penetrate the atmosphere far enough from touchdown to give directional, distance, and glidepath information for safe transition from instrument to visual flight.

Area chart

Part of the low-altitude en route chart series, this chart furnishes terminal data at a larger scale for congested areas.

Area forecast (FA)

A report that gives a picture of clouds, general weather conditions, and visual meteorological conditions (VMC) expected over a large area encompassing several states. (Discontinued, replaced by Graphical Forecasts for Aviation)

Area navigation (RNAV)

Allows a pilot to fly a selected course to a predetermined point without the need to overfly ground-based navigation facilities, by using waypoints.

Arm

Moment arm.

Aspect ratio

Span of a wing divided by its average chord.

Asymmetric thrust

Also known as P-factor. A tendency for an aircraft to yaw to the left due to the descending propeller blade on the right producing more thrust than the ascending blade on the left. This occurs when the aircraft’s longitudinal axis is in a climbing attitude in relation to the relative wind.The P-factor would be to the right if the aircraft had a counterclockwise rotating propeller.

Atmospheric propagation delay

A bending of the electromagnetic (EM) wave from the satellite that creates an error in the GPS system.

Attitude

A personal motivational predisposition to respond to persons, situations, or events in a given manner that can, nevertheless, be changed or modified through training as sort of a mental shortcut to decision-making.

Attitude and heading reference system (AHRS)

A system composed of three-axis sensors that provide heading, attitude, and yaw information for aircraft. AHRS are designed to replace traditional mechanical gyroscopic flight instruments and provide superior reliability and accuracy.

Attitude director indicator (ADI)

An aircraft attitude indicator that incorporates flight command bars to provide pitch and roll commands.

Attitude indicator

The foundation for all instrument flight, this instrument reflects the airplane’s attitude in relation to the horizon.

Attitude instrument flying

Controlling the aircraft by reference to the instruments rather than by outside visual cues.

Attitude management

The ability to recognize hazardous attitudes in oneself and the willingness to modify them as necessary through the application of an appropriate antidote thought.

Autokinesis

Nighttime visual illusion that a stationary light is moving, which becomes apparent after several seconds of staring at the light.

Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS)

Weather reporting system which provides surface observations every minute via digitized voice broadcasts and printed reports.

Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS)

Automated weather reporting system consisting of various sensors, a processor, a computer-generated voice subsystem, and a transmitter to broadcast weather data.

Automatic dependent surveillance—broadcast (ADS-B)

A device used in aircraft that repeatedly broadcasts a message that includes position (such as latitude, longitude, and altitude), velocity, and possibly other information.

Automatic direction finder (ADF)

Automatic terminal information service (ATIS)

Autopilot

An automatic flight control system which keeps an aircraft in level flight or on a set course. Automatic pilots can be directed by the pilot, or they may be coupled to a radio navigation signal.

Aviation medical examiner (AME)

A physician with training in aviation medicine designated by the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI).

Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR)

Observation of current surface weather reported in a standard international format.

Axes of an aircraft

Three imaginary lines that pass through an aircraft’s center of gravity. The axes can be considered as imaginary axles around which the aircraft rotates. The three axes pass through the center of gravity at 90° angles to each other. The axis from nose to tail is the longitudinal axis (pitch), the axis that passes from wingtip to wingtip is the lateral axis (roll), and the axis that passes vertically through the center of gravity is the vertical axis (yaw).

Axial flow compressor

Azimuth card

A card that may be set, gyroscopically controlled, or driven by a remote compass.

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