A

(Alpha)
Absolute Altitude – Altitud absoluta: the vertical distance between the aircraft and
ground level.
Absolute Ceiling – Techo absoluto: the highest altitude an aircraft can fly at maximum
throttle while maintaining level height and constant airspeed.
Accelerated Stall – Perdida acelerada: a stall that occurs at a higher airspeed than a
normal stall due to a higher load factor (g).
Adverse yaw – Guiñada adversa: occurs when the plane’s nose turns away from the
direction of turn.
ADF (Automatic Direction Finder) – Instrumento de Navegación Aérea: a
navigation system that identifies the relative bearing of an aircraft based on a radio beacon
transmitting in the MF or LF bandwidth.
Adiabatic Lapse Rate – Tasa de Caída Adiabática: the rate at which temperature
changes due to increasing and decreasing altitude, under conditions of thermal equilibrium.
Aeronautical Decision-Making – Toma de Decisiones Aeronáuticas: training and
planning to make the best and safest decisions to mitigate risk.
AIM (Aeronautical Information Manual) – Manual de Información Aeronáutica:
an official Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) publication that details proper pilot
operation within the US National Airspace System, including Air Traffic Control (ATC) and
aviation safety.
Aileron – Alerón: the movable, hinged flight control surfaces that are used in pairs with
opposite.
Autopilot – Piloto Automatico: is an advanced system used in aircraft to control the
trajectory without constant hands-on input from the human pilot. It's an automated flight
control system.
 B
(Bravo)

Baggage Allowance - Límite de equipaje: the amount of checked or hand luggage a

commercial airline allows.
Base Airport – Aeropuerto base: is the primary location where airlines house their
operations, including maintenance, crew bases, and flight operations.
Baulked Landing – Aterrizaje abortado: a procedure where an aircraft aborts its
landing, which occurs when a pilot decides not to complete a landing attempt and instead
takes off again.
Beacons – Luces Anticolisión: are high-intensity lights used on aircraft and airports to
enhance visibility and safety.
Best Lift Over Drag Ratio – Mejor relación de elevación sobre Resistencia: often
referred to as ‘L - over D - Max’, this is the highest value of ratios of lift to drag for any
airfoil.
Black boxes - Caja Negra: containing the flight data recorder and cockpit voice
recorder are essential for understanding the events leading up to an aviation incident.
Blade Angle – Ángulo de álabe: the angle between the reference line of a propeller
blade and a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
Bleed Air – Aire Purgado (o comprimido): hot compressed air produced during the
compressor stage of aircraft engine operation.
Boarding pass - Pase de abordar: is a document airlines provide after check-in,
allowing passengers access to their flight and information on their departure.
Bypass Ratio - Relación de derivación: is a key factor in determining the efficiency
and performance of jet engines, referring to the ratio of air bypassing the engine core versus
air passing through it.
 C
(Charlie)

Cabin Crew – Tripulación de Cabina: the airline staff members responsible for the
safety and comfort of passengers during flight, typically the flight attendants.
Calibrated Airspeed – Velocidad Calibrada: the indicated airspeed corrected for
position and instrument error.
CAVU (Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited) – Cielo y visibilidad ilimitados: describes
ideal flying conditions with visibility of 10 or more miles and ceiling of at least 10,000 feet.
Cargo – Peso Bruto: goods carried on an aircraft.
Ceiling – Techo: the height of the lowest cloud layer or obscuring phenomena that is
reported as “broken”, “overcast”, or “obscuration”, and not classified as “thin” or “partial”.
Charter – Vuelo privado: the business of renting all seats on an aircraft rather than a
commercial flight where seats are sold individually.
Checkride – Examen de vuelo: this is the more common name for the FAA Practical
Test. Pilots must pass a checkride for each certification or rating.
Chord Line – Cuerda del ala: the imaginary straight line running between the airfoil’s
leading and trailing edges.
Clearance – Autorización: the authorization provided by air traffic control for aircraft
to proceed with a particular action in controlled airspace, which is designed to prevent
aircraft collisions.
Climb – Ascenso: the act of increasing aircraft altitude, typically to a designated level.
Cockpit – Cabina de mando: the cockpit of a plane is located at the front. It contains
the instrument panel and pilots seats.
 D
(Delta)

DA (Density Altitude) - Altitud de densidad: is the air density given as a height above
mean sea level. The density altitude is considered to be the pressure altitude adjusted for a
non-standard temperature.
Descent – Descenso: the act of decreasing aircraft altitude, typically to a designated
level.
(DME) Distance Measuring Equipment – Equipo de Medición de Distancia: radio
navigation technology used to measure the distance between the aircraft and a ground
station.
Distress – Llamada de socorro o Mayday: an internationally-recognized signal for
danger and need for immediate assistance. It is a condition of threat by serious and/or
imminent danger and signals the need for immediate assistance.
Doppler Radar – Radar meteorológico: is a specialized radar system that measures the
velocity and movement of objects, such as raindrops, snow, and hail, in the atmosphere.
Dogfight – Pelea de perros: a close range aerial battle between two aircraft. These
occurred in every war involving planes until 1992.
Downwash – Desviación hacia abajo: in aeronautics, the term describes air that is
deflected downwards by the aircraft wing or a rotor blade on a helicopter, usually when the
plane is taking off.
Downwind Leg – Tramo a favor del Viento: a flight path parallel to but running the
opposite direction of the runway intended for landing.
Drag – Resistencia: a parallel and opposing force to an aircraft’s motion through the air.
Dry Weight - peso en seco: in aviation represents the weight of an aircraft without fuel
or payload, a critical factor in determining performance and efficiency.
 E
(Echo)
Economic Life – Ciclo económico de vida: is the time period when an aircraft remains
economically viable for operation, considering operational costs, maintenance, fuel
efficiency, and market demand.
Elevator – Elevador: horizontal surfaces that control aircraft pitch and are typically
hinged to the stabilizer.
Emergency overrun - Desbordamiento de Pista: a surface before the take-off area on
the runway that is kept clear. This portion is designed to minimize damage to an aircraft if it
is unable to stop.
Empennage – Empenaje: another phrase for the tail of an aircraft, which provides
stability during flight.
Engine - Motor aeronáutico: an aircraft engine is a machine that converts energy to
power the plane.
Equal time point - Punto de Tiempo Igual: the moment during a flight when two or
more destinations become equidistant in terms of flight time. It is a critical decision-making
point for pilots, determining whether to continue to the original destination or divert to an
alternative location due to unforeseen circumstances.
ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) – Tiempo Estimado de Llegada: the time you will
arrive at a destination, based on the local time.
ETD (Estimated Time of Departure) – Hora de Salida Estimada: the time you plan to
depart.
ETE (Estimated Time en Route) – Tiempo Estimado del Trayecto: the amount of
time you will spend traveling to a destination.
Exterior Lighting – Luces Exteriores: on aircraft serves crucial functions in visibility,
navigation, and safety, including landing lights, strobes, and beacons.
 F
(Foxtrot)

FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) the governing body of civil aviation in the
United States.
FARs – Federal Aviation Regulations – FAA rules governing aviation in the U.S.
FBO – Fixed-Base Operator – An airfield operation where pilots may find fuel and
other services.
Feathering – The act of adjusting variable pitch propellers so that the blades are in line
with airflow and don’t create air resistance.
Ferry Flight – A flight intended to return an aircraft to base; deliver a new aircraft from
the manufacturer to the purchaser; move an aircraft from one operations base to another; or
moving an aircraft for the purpose of maintenance.
Final Approach – A flight path running in the direction of the runway intended for
landing that ends with a landing.
Firewall – A fire-resistant bulkhead that is situated between the engine and other aircraft
areas.
“Five by five” – Radio receptions is loud and clear on a scale of 1 to 5
Fixed Base Operator (FBO) – An organization at an airport that offers aviation
services, such as hangar, parking, and tie-down space; airplane maintenance and rentals;
and fuel.
Flaps – Flaps are a kind of high-lift device used to increase the lift of an aircraft wing at
a given airspeed. Flat devices, typically located on the edges of a an aircraft wing, that
control lift at specific speeds.
Flare – A maneuver that typically occurs during the landing stage of an aircraft. The
aircraft nose is pointed upwards, which lowers the descent rate in preparation for landing.
Flight Bag – A pilot flight bag is used to carry required documents and helpful tools,
such as a kneeboard, headset, and checklists.
Flight Computer – Many pilots rely on the E6B flight computer to calculate fuel use,
wind direction, etc.
Flight Deck – An area at the front of airplane where the pilot and aircraft controls are
situated – in other words, the cockpit.
Flight Plan – Formatted information provided by pilots or dispatchers regarding an
upcoming flight, including details such as destination, path, timing, etc.
Flying Dirty – Flying with extendable surfaces in their extended states to create drag,
such as flaps extended and landing gear out.
F/O – First Officer – Second in command of the aircraft
Fog – Fog is a thick cloud of tiny water droplets at or near Earth’s surface that obscures
visibility.
FSDO – Flight Standards District Office – Local authority overseen by the FAA
FSS – Flight Service Station – An air traffic facility that provides information and
services to pilots.
 Fuselage – The central portion of an aircraft, which is intended to house the flight crew,
passengers, and cargo. Learn more about the parts of an airplane.

G
General Aviation – The division of civil aviation aircraft operations that includes all but
commercial air transport and aerial work.
Glass Cockpit – A term used to describe an aircraft that is fully equipped with
electronic, digital flight instrument displays, instead of analog-style gauges.
“George” – Nickname given to the autopilot system
Go-Around – A go-around occurs when the pilot abandons a landing and goes around
the flight pattern before attempting to land.
Gone Tech: a technical malfunction or failure of a specific aircraft system, component,
or instrument during a flight. It signifies that the affected technology is no longer
functioning correctly and requires maintenance or repair before the aircraft can resume
normal operations.
Gross Weight – The aircraft weight including people, cargo, fuel, etc.
Grounding: Grounding in aviation is the temporary suspension of aircraft due to safety
concerns or regulatory issues. It involves removing aircraft from service until repairs or
inspections are completed to ensure safe operation.
Ground control: The personnel and equipment in a control tower who are responsible for
the safe and efficient movement of aircraft on the ground.
Ground Effect – The increasing lift and decreasing drag that occurs as a result of an
aircraft’s wings as it gets closer to the ground.
Groundspeed – The horizontal speed of an aircraft relative to the surface below.

H
1. Hand Luggage: also known as carry-on baggage, refers to the items of luggage that
passengers are allowed to carry with them in the aircraft cabin.
2. Hand-off – The action taken by ATC to transfer radar identification of an aircraft to
another controller.
3. Handshake – The initial interaction or ‘greeting’ between two computers. Aircraft
communicate with satellites for location purposes. Aeronautical satellite
communication (SATCOM) systems are used to transmit messages from the cockpit
as well as automated messages from on-board systems. During these
communications, a log-on request occurs, often called a ‘ping.’ This process of
interrogating the terminal is known as the handshake.
4. Hangar – A building made to hold aircraft for storing, maintenance, assembly, etc.
 5. hard landing: occurs when an aircraft touches the runway with greater vertical speed
and force than is typical or desirable. This can happen due to factors like pilot error,
strong winds, or mechanical issues.
6. Heavy – ATC uses this term to refer to larger aircraft with a maximum takeoff
weight of 136 tonnes or more.
7. Helicopter: is a type of rotorcraft within aviation, distinguished by its unique
capability to achieve vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) by employing one or
more horizontally spinning rotors.
8. Heliport: is a specially designed facility for the operation of helicopters, often
including one or more helipads and additional supporting infrastructure.
9. Horizontal Stabilizer – The horizontal stabilizer prevents up-and-down, or
pitching, motion of the aircraft nose.
10. Hypoxia – A condition caused by low levels of oxygen that can lead to dizziness,
disorientation, etc, posing extreme danger to pilots operating aircraft at high
altitudes.

I
1. ICAO – International Civil Aviation Organization – A specialized agency of the
United Nations. Supports aviation and navigation around the globe.
2. International Air Transport Association: A global trade association representing
the airline industry, facilitating safe, secure, and efficient air transport by setting
industry standards, promoting collaboration among airlines, and advocating for the
interests of the aviation community worldwide. Also known as IATA.
3. Integrated Standby Flight Display: A backup instrument panel that provides
flight information, such as attitude, altitude, airspeed, and navigation data, in the
event of a primary flight display failure. Also known as ISFD.
4. Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) – Regulations that define aircraft operations when
pilots are not able to operate using visual references.
5. Instrument Landing System (ILS) – A ground-based system that provides
directional information for aircraft attempting to land in low visibility situations.
6. Indicated Airspeed (IAS) – The speed of an aircraft displayed on the airspeed
indicator, which is determined by the pitot-static tube and does not take into account
any outside factors.
7. Instrument Meterological Conditions (IMC) – Weather conditions that describe a
situation where pilots are not able to operate using visual references.
8. Insurance requirements: involve regulations and standards for insuring aircraft and
aviation operations. These requirements are crucial for aircraft operators, owners,
leasing companies, and airports, providing financial protection against risks
associated with aviation activities.
9. Intake Vortex: is a phenomenon that occurs at the air intake of jet engines,
particularly under certain conditions like low speed and high engine power settings.
 It involves the formation of a visible, swirling pattern of air being sucked into the
engine.
10. Intercontinental Flights: travel between different continents, covering long distances
and often involving extended durations in the air. These flights are a significant
component of global air travel and are particularly relevant in the context of private
jet charter services.

J
1. Jet – An aircraft propelled by one or more jet engines.
2. Jet Age: is a monumental period in aviation history, signifying a paradigm shift
fueled by jet-engine technology's beginning and rapid advancement. Emerging in
the late 1940s, this transformative era propelled air travel into a new realm of speed,
efficiency, and accessibility, fundamentally reshaping the dynamics of global
transportation.
3. Jet Blast: refers to the intense stream of air produced at high speed from the back of
a jet engine, particularly noticeable when an aircraft is preparing for takeoff or at
high power settings. This powerful thrust is essential for the propulsion of jet
aircraft but can pose significant hazards in the vicinity of runways and airport
aprons.
4. Jet Fuel: is a specialized type of aviation fuel designed for use in aircraft powered
by turbine engines, including commercial jets and many types of military aircraft.
5. Jet Lag: is a physiological condition resulting from rapid long-distance
transmeridian travel on a jet aircraft. It occurs when there is a mismatch between the
body's internal circadian rhythm and the external environment due to crossing
multiple time zones.
6. Jet Taxi: refers to the process of an aircraft moving along the ground under its
power, typically using its jet engines. This is a standard procedure before takeoff
and after landing, where the aircraft taxis to and from the runway and gate.
7. Jettison: refers to the emergency procedure of discarding fuel or other cargo from an
aircraft in flight. This action is typically taken to rapidly reduce the aircraft's weight,
usually in preparation for an emergency landing or to avoid severe weather
conditions.
8. Jetway: Also known as an aerobridge or passenger boarding bridge, is a movable
enclosed walkway that connects an airport terminal gate directly to an aircraft,
enabling passengers to board or disembark the plane in a sheltered and convenient
manner.
9. Jump Seat: in aviation refers to an additional seat located in the cockpit or cabin of
an aircraft. This seat is not designated for passengers but is used for specific
personnel under certain circumstances.
 10. Joystick – The control column in the aircraft is often called a joystick. It is the main
device that controls the aircraft and is typically mounted on the ceiling or floor if
the aircraft has a joystick instead of a yoke.

K
1. KCAS – Knots Calibrated Airspeed – Indicated airspeed corrected for instrument
and position error
2. Kerosene: is a type of hydrocarbon fuel commonly used in jet engines and often
synonymous with jet fuel, particularly Jet A and Jet A-1, in aviation contexts.
3. Key Route: in aviation is a heavily travelled air route characterized by high
passenger or cargo traffic. For private jets, it specifically pertains to routes
frequently used by private flyers.
4. KIAS – Knots Indicated Airspeed – Read directly from the airspeed indicator
5. Kinetic Energy: in the context of aviation refers to the energy an object possesses
due to its motion. It is a fundamental concept in understanding various aspects of
flight dynamics and aircraft performance.
6. Kneeboard – Pilots attach a kneeboard to their thigh as a clipboard tool to organize
tools, charts, etc.
7. Knot – A measurement of speed that takes into account nautical miles: 1 knot = 1
nautical mile per hour = 6076 feet per hour. 1 mph =1 mile per hour = 5280 feet per
hour.
8. Known Icing Conditions: in aviation refer to specific weather situations where ice
formation on an aircraft is either expected or has been observed. These conditions
are critical for pilots and flight planners to consider for safe flight operations.
9. KTAS – Knots True Airspeed – The speed of the aircraft relative to the airmass in
which it is flying.
10. Krueger Flaps are a type of leading-edge flap used on the wings of a particular
aircraft. They are designed to improve the aircraft's lift at lower speeds, which is
especially important during the takeoff and landing phases.

L
1. Laminar-Flow Airfoil – The smooth airflow over an aircraft wing with minimized
drag.
2. Landing Gear – Wheels and other components in the undercarriage of an aircraft
that assist in takeoff, taxiing, and landing while providing structural support.
3. Level flight: A flight maneuver that causes the aircraft to stay at the same altitude.
 4. Leg: refers to a single segment or portion of a journey between two points. In air
charter itineraries, each leg represents one non-stop flight from a departure point to
a destination.
5. Life Vest: also known as a life preserver or personal flotation device (PFD), is a
safety equipment provided on aircraft for use in emergency water landings or
situations with a risk of water immersion.
6. Lift – The force that directly opposes aircraft weight, generated primarily by the
wings.
7. Lighter-than-air craft (LTA craft): Refers to things like blimps, dirigibles and free
balloons that float.
8. Load Factor (g) – The smooth airflow over an aircraft wing with minimized drag.
9. Longitudinal Axis – The directional that runs horizontally from the aircraft nose to
tail.
10. Low Visibility Operations (LVO): refers to the specialized procedures and
technologies that enable aircraft to operate safely in conditions of reduced visibility,
such as fog, heavy rain, or snow. These operations are critical for maintaining the
efficiency and safety of air travel in adverse weather conditions.

M
1. Mach – The ratio of aircraft speed to the speed of sound through the medium where
the aircraft is traveling.
2. Magnetic Compass – The directional orientation of an aircraft according to the
geomagnetic field.
3. Magnetic Deviation – The error produced by the unavoidable magnetic impact of
aircraft materials.
4. Magnetic North – Unlike the geographical north (North Pole), this point is the
location indicated as North by where the compass points.
5. Magneto – An aircraft engine component that generates high voltage to ignite spark
plugs.
6. Mean Sea Level (MSL) – The average level of the surface an ocean used as a basis
for vertical measurements.
7. METAR – A pilot weather report delivered on a continuous basis.
8. Morse Code – Pilots learn Morse code to identify aircraft call signs since NDBs
and VORs still send their identifying letters this way.
 9. MSL – Mean Sea Level – Average level of the surface of one or more of Earth’s
bodies of water from which heights such as elevation may be measured.
10. MTOW – Maximum Take-Off Weight

N
1. Narrow-Body Aircraft – A smaller type of aircraft that has a single-aisle inside. It
can carry 4 to 300 passengers.
2. Nautical Mile – Aviation’s main distance measurement. One nautical mile equals
1.15 standard U.S. miles. Knots refers to nautical miles per hour, so an aircraft
moving at 100 knots is flying at 115 miles per hour.
3. Nav/Com: refers to the integrated navigation and communication radio equipment
found in aircraft cockpits. This system is a fundamental component of an aircraft's
avionics, enabling pilots to navigate effectively and communicate with air traffic
control, other aircraft, and ground services.
4. Navigation: in aviation is the process of planning, recording, and controlling the
movement of an aircraft from one geographic location to another. It is a crucial skill
for pilots and a fundamental aspect of flight operations.

5. NDB – Non-directional beacon is a radio transmitter at a know location used as a

navigation aid.

6. Nontowered Airport: is an airport that operates without an Air Traffic Control

(ATC) tower. In the absence of an ATC tower, pilots flying to and from the airport
use standard procedures and expected frequencies to communicate with each other
to coordinate takeoffs, landings, and other airfield operations.

7. Normal Operating Procedures: in aviation refer to the standardized procedures and

guidelines established for routine flight operations. These procedures ensure safety,
efficiency, and consistency in aircraft operation under normal conditions.
8. North Atlantic Tracks: Also known as the North Atlantic Organized Track System
(NAT-OTS), are a specified set of routes that stretch Eastbound and Westbound
across the North Atlantic, requiring aircraft to obtain oceanic clearance to fly them;
these tracks ensure safety by maintaining separation between aircraft and
considering optimal weather conditions.

9. Nosewheel: is the front wheel of an aircraft's landing gear system. It plays a

significant role in the design and functionality of most modern aircraft, particularly
those with tricycle undercarriage configurations, which include a nosewheel and
two main landing gears.
10. NOTAMs – Abbreviation for “Notices to airmen.” which are published notices
provided to pilots prior to flights advising them of relevant circumstances in real
time.
O
1. OAT – Outside Air Temperature
2. Obstacle Clearance: ensures that an aircraft maintains a safe vertical and horizontal
distance from all obstacles during takeoff, in-flight manoeuvres, and landing. This is
crucial for aircraft safety, especially in environments with numerous ground or
aerial obstacles.
3. Oil pressure gauge: An instrument in the aircraft that shows the pressure of the
lubricating oil in the engine.
4. Operating Limitations – Restrictions defined by an aircraft manufacturer including
airspeed, weight, etc.
5. Operating costs: in aviation refer to the costs of running and maintaining an aircraft.
These costs are significant factors in the management of charter operations and the
overall economics of aviation.
6. Operator: in aviation is an entity responsible for managing, maintaining, and
operating one or more aircraft, particularly in the context of private charter services.
7. Overshoot – Landing air craft beyond the runway.
8. Overspeed: in aviation refers to a condition where an aircraft exceeds its certified
maximum speed, known as Vne (Velocity never exceed). This situation can pose
significant safety risks due to the potential for structural stress and damage.
9. Overwing Exits: are emergency exits located over the wings of an aircraft. These
exits are an essential part of an aircraft’s safety features, designed for rapid
evacuation of passengers in an emergency.
10. Oxygen Systems: in aircraft are crucial safety features that provide supplemental
oxygen to passengers and crew, especially at high altitudes where the ambient air is
thin and oxygen levels are insufficient for normal breathing.

P
1. Pattern –The direction of aircraft traffic around an airfield, supervised by air traffic
control and communicated via radio.
 2. Payload – The weight of the content carried in an aircraft, including passengers,
pilots, cargo, etc.
3. Pilot in Command (PIC) – The designated individual that is responsible for safe
aircraft operations during flight.
4. PIREP – Pilot Report – Report to ATC made by a pilot during flight or after landing
describing actual weather conditions.
5. Pitch – The movement of an aircraft around the lateral axis, characterized by the
nose and tail rising and falling.
6. Pitot Tube – A small device located on the front outside edge of an airfoil, used to
measure air pressure.
7. POH – Pilot’s Operating Handbook – An aircraft flight manual containing
pertinent safety information.
8. Preignition: Ignition that takes place in an internal combustion engine before the
usual ignition occurs
9. Primary Flight Display (PFD) – The main screen used by pilots in aircraft
containing an electronic flight instrument system.
10. Propeller – A piece of aircraft equipment that contains rotating blades, creating
engine thrust. Learn more about the parts of an airplane.

Q
1. QAR – Quick Access Recorder – An airborne flight recorder that provides quick
and easy access to raw flight data through a USB or cellular network.
2. Q-codes: are a standardized collection of three-letter codes initially developed for
maritime and aviation radio communications. In aviation, these codes are used to
convey specific operational messages concisely and standardised, particularly
during radio communications.
3. QFE: is a vital aviation term that refers to the local atmospheric pressure at an
airfield, used to set an aircraft's altimeter for accurate altitude readings above the
airport surface. Essential for precision in altitude measurement, safety during
takeoff and landing, and enhanced situational awareness.
4. QNH: An essential aviation term that represents the atmospheric pressure calibrated
to mean sea level, used by pilots to set their altimeter for accurate altitude readings
above sea level. This calibration is crucial for ensuring precise navigation, safe
takeoff and landing operations, and effective airspace management, particularly in
the specialized operations of private aviation.
5. QNE: is an aviation term that refers to the altitude indicated by an
aircraft's altimeter when set to the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level,
which is 1013.25 hectopascals (hPa) or 29.92 inches of mercury (inHg). QNE is not
a direct pressure reading but a uniform method for expressing altitude in high-
 altitude flight, essential for ensuring consistent and safe navigation across different
airspaces.
6. Quadraplane: An aircraft that has 4 wings of the same size
7. Quadrantal Rule: is an aviation rule that dictates how pilots should select their
cruising altitudes based on their aircraft's magnetic heading to minimize the risk of
mid-air collision, especially in uncontrolled airspace. This rule, fundamental to
aviation safety, underscores the importance of strategic altitude selection in
promoting situational awareness and reducing the likelihood of close encounters
between aircraft.
8. Quarantine Regulations: A set of rules and guidelines focused on isolating
passengers or crew for health reasons, particularly relevant in international travel
and during health crises like pandemics. These regulations are vital for preventing
the spread of infectious diseases through air travel, safeguarding public health, and
ensuring the safe operation of flights.
9. Quenching: refers to rapidly cooling and extinguishing fires onboard an aircraft by
applying suppressants. This technique is fundamental to aircraft fire safety,
employing advanced technologies to immediately suppress fires, prevent their
spread, and ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
10. Quiet Hours: are designated periods when airports implement strict noise
restrictions to minimize the impact of air traffic on surrounding communities.

R
1. Radar: is a critical system that uses radio waves to detect, locate, and monitor
objects, playing a vital role in navigation, collision avoidance, and air traffic control
in aviation.
2. Radar Altimeter: is an advanced aviation instrument that uses radio waves to
measure an aircraft's altitude directly above the ground, essential for safe low-level
flying, precise landing approaches, and operation in poor visibility conditions.
3. Radio: in aviation is a critical communication device used in aircraft for
transmitting and receiving voice and data messages, essential for air-to-ground and
air-to-air exchanges.
4. Radio Navigation: is a sophisticated aviation method that utilizes radio frequencies
and navigation aids to determine an aircraft's position and guide it from one point to
another.
5. Report Time: The time that the aircraft’s crew must arrive at the airport to prepare
for the flight, usually anywhere from half an hour to an hour before the passengers
are due to board.
6. Registration or Tail Number: A government-issued number on the exterior of the
aircraft for the purposes of identification.
 7. Roll – Aircraft rotation around the longitudinal axis, which runs from the nose to
tail.
8. Rudder – An aircraft surface used to control the yaw movement.
9. Runway (RWY) – A “defined rectangular area on a land aerodrome prepared for
the landing and takeoff of aircraft”.
10. Runway End Safety Area (RESA) – A surface located beyond the runway
designated as a place for aircraft to enter in an attempt to minimize risk during
unplanned occurrences, such as an overshoot.

S
1. Second in command (SIC) – The designated individual to take over flight
operations from the PIC.
2. Seniority – The amount of time you are employed at an airline or other employer.
3. Short Field – A runway that is shorter in length and requires aircraft to minimize
the amount of runway used when taking off or landing.
4. Sideslip – An aircraft movement that typically aligns with the lateral force of the
wind and results in a sideways flow.
5. Skid – The sliding and outward pivoting movement of the aircraft that occurs as a
result of a shallow turn.
6. Slip – The sliding and inward pivoting movement of the aircraft that occurs as a
result of a steep turn.
7. Soft Field – A runway that is not paved and made of elements such as dirt or grass.
8. Squawk – A four-digit transponder code given to an aircraft by ATC to allow for
simple identification of an aircraft in a given region.
9. Stability – Aircraft are subject to static, dynamic, longitudinal, lateral, and
directional stability that impact flying conditions. It is the inherent facet of a plane
to correct for any conditions that disturb equilibrium and returne/continue on the
original flight path.
10. Stall – The condition that occurs as a result of an aircraft exceeding its critical angle
of attack and therefore experiencing decreased lift.
11. Standard Rate Turn – A turn that an aircraft makes at a rate of 3°/second or a 360°
turn in two minutes.
12. Straight-and-Level Flight – Maintaining a consistent heading and altitude during
flight.
T
1. Tail – The rear aircraft structure that provides aerodynamic stability.
2. Tarmac – The paved area at an airport where aircraft park, fuel, load, and unload.
3. Threshold – The area of a runway, designated with particular markings, indicating
the beginning of a runway.
4. Throttle – A device that controls the amount of power outputted by the engine.
5. Thrust – A force which opposes aircraft drag and is created by the engines to
propel the aircraft forward.
6. Torque – A force that is intended to produce rotation.
7. Touch-and-Go – An aircraft maneuver used to practice landing techniques by
simply landing on the runway and taking off once more without coming to a full
stop.
8. Transponder – An electronic device on airplanes that generate an output code,
which is used for ATC identification purposes. Also known as ‘squawk’.
9. Trim Tab – Small surfaces on the trailing edge of a bigger control surface used to
counteract the aerodynamic forces on the bigger control surface.
10. True Airspeed – The speed of an aircraft is the speed corrected for the errors
caused by altitude and temperature.
11. True Altitude – The vertical height of an aircraft above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
12. Turbulence – A sudden violent shift in air flow caused by irregular atmospheric
motion.
13. TWR – Tower
14. TWY – Taxiway

U
1. Ultra High Frequency (UHF): refers to a range of radio frequencies between 300
MHz and 3 GHz. In aviation, UHF is used for various communication systems,
including aircraft-to-aircraft and aircraft-to-ground communications, particularly in
military aviation.
2. Unaccompanied Minor: in aviation refers to a young passenger, typically under the
age of 18, travelling alone without being accompanied by an adult. Airlines have
specific policies and procedures to ensure these young travellers' safety and well-
being.
3. Uncontrolled Airspace: refers to areas of the sky where Air Traffic Control
(ATC) does not provide active air traffic services. In this type of airspace, pilots
 operate their aircraft without direct guidance or control from ATC, instead relying
on established flight rules and their own judgment to ensure safety and avoid
collisions.
4. Undercarriage: commonly known as the landing gear, is a critical component of an
aircraft supporting it on the ground. The undercarriage includes all systems and
structures that enable an aircraft to safely taxi, take off, and land.
5. Universal Communication: commonly referred to as UNICOM, is a non-
governmental communication facility used at airports that do not have control
towers. It operates on a standard radio frequency to facilitate local pilot
communication and communication between pilots and Fixed Base Operators
(FBOs) for administrative and operational purposes.
6. Upwind Leg – The flight path in an airport pattern that runs parallel to the runway
landing direction, along the same direction the aircraft will be landing.
7. Urgent – Takes precedence over all radio calls except Distress. Indicates a
condition of concern regarding safety. Requires timely assistance, although not
necessarily immediate assistance.
8. Useful Load – The weight of the items that can be taken out of the aircraft,
including fuel, passengers, cargo, pilots, etc.
9. UTC – Universal Time Coordinated – The primary time standard used to regulate
clocks and time around the world.
10. Utility category: in aircraft certification refers to a classification that includes
aircraft designed for limited aerobatic operations. These aircraft meet specific
structural and design standards, allowing them to perform certain types of aerobatic
manoeuvres safely.

V
1. Variable Costs: in private jet operations refer to the expenses that fluctuate with the
level of operational activity. Unlike fixed costs, which remain constant regardless of
usage, variable costs increase or decrease based on how much the aircraft is flown.
2. V Speed – Approximately 20 standard terms used to describe airspeeds important or
useful to the operation of all aircraft, such as Vne speed, which means “never
exceed speed” or Vmo, which means “maximum operating speeds. Each aircraft has
its own unique V speeds.
3. Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI) – A device that provides the feet per minute (fpm)
rate at which an aircraft is climb or descending.
 4. Very High Frequency (VHF): A short-range radio aircraft navigation system that
allows equipped aircraft to receive directional information through radio signals
from ground-based beacons.
5. Visual Flight Rules (VFR) – Regulations that define aircraft operations when pilots
are able to operate using visual references.
6. VFR On Top – The condition where IFR conditions exist, however VFR conditions
exact above the cloud layer.
7. Vmc, or Minimum Control Speed: is a critical airspeed in aviation, representing the
minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain directional control with one
engine inoperative in a multi-engine aircraft.
8. Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) – Weather conditions that describe a
situation where pilots are able to operate using visual references.
9. VOR – A navigation aid used by pilots. VOR stands for very high frequency (VHF)
omni-directional range.
10. Vortex Generator: is a small aerodynamic device installed on an aircraft's wings or
other parts. Its primary function is to control the airflow over the wing, delaying
flow separation and thus improving the aircraft's aerodynamic performance,
especially at low speeds.

W
1. Wait Time: refers to an aircraft's waiting period for a specific event or operational
clearance in aviation. This encompasses various types of delays encountered during
flight operations, including on the ground and in the air.
2. Weather Minimums: are the specified limits of weather conditions that must be met
or exceeded for certain flight operations to be permitted.
3. Weight and balance: in aviation refers to calculating and distributing an aircraft's
load to ensure it is within the allowable limits for safe flight. Proper weight and
balance are crucial for aircraft performance, safety, and efficiency.
4. Weight-Shift-Control – A method used by pilots to steer a hang glider or paraglider
whereby they push a control bar attached to the wing structure.
5. Wide-Body Aircraft – An aircraft with two aisles inside. The typical fuselage
diameter is 16 to 20 feet.
6. Wilco: A term indicating that you will follow the instructions given.
7. Wind Shear – An abrupt change in horizontal or vertical wind direction.
8. Wing: The piece of a heavier-than-air aircraft that creates aerodynamic lift.
9. Wing Walker: An employee on the ground who assists the aircraft by walking on the
wings to ensure there is ample space for clearance.
10. Winglet: is a small, aerodynamic device attached to the tips of an aircraft's wings. It
is designed to improve the efficiency of the aircraft by reducing drag caused by
 wingtip vortices, which occur when high-pressure air from under the wing flows
around the wingtip into the low-pressure area above the wing.

X
1. X-band radar: operates in the X-band frequency range of the electromagnetic
spectrum, typically between 8 and 12 GHz. In aviation, this type of radar is highly
valued for its capabilities in weather monitoring, air traffic control, and terrain-
following radar systems. The relatively short wavelength of X-band frequencies
allows for higher-resolution images and enhanced detection of small features.
2. X-ray Backscatter: technology is a sophisticated security screening tool used in
aviation for examining luggage and scanning passengers. This technology employs
low-level X-rays that reflect (backscatter) off objects or individuals, creating a
detailed image that reveals the contents or the presence of concealed items.
3. XC – Cross-country
4. X-Wind Component: or Crosswind Component, is critical in aviation, particularly
during takeoff and landing operations. It refers to the portion of the wind that blows
across the runway perpendicular to the direction of the runway. Pilots must
calculate and assess the crosswind component to ensure it falls within the aircraft's
operational limits for safe takeoff and landing.
5. XFE, or Extra Fuel Expense: refers to additional fuel costs incurred due to various
operational factors. These additional costs can arise from deviations from the
planned flight route, adverse weather conditions requiring rerouting, compliance
with air traffic control (ATC) requirements, or holding patterns due to traffic
congestion or other delays.

Y
1. Yaw – The movement of an aircraft around the vertical axis, characterized by the nose
moving side-to-side. The rudder controls yaw.
2. Yaw Damper is an automated flight control system used in aircraft to minimise or
prevent unwanted yaw oscillation, commonly known as Dutch roll. This system is
particularly important in larger and faster aircraft, where yaw stability is critical for safe
and comfortable flight.
3. Yield Management: also known as revenue management, is a strategic approach airlines
use to maximise passenger revenue. This strategy dynamically adjusts ticket prices
based on various factors such as demand, availability, timing, and market trends.
4. Yoke – The aircraft control devices used by pilot for changes in attitude, as well as
pitch and roll movement.

Z
1. Zero Fuel Weight (ZFW): is a crucial parameter in aviation, referring to the total
weight of the aircraft and all its contents, excluding any fuel. It includes the weight
of the aircraft structure, the crew, passengers, baggage, cargo, and any other non-
fuel items on board.
2. Zonal Inspection: in aircraft maintenance is a systematic approach that involves
dividing the aircraft into specific zones for detailed checks and inspections. This
method allows for a more organised, thorough, and efficient maintenance process,
ensuring that all aircraft parts are correctly examined and serviced.
3. Zonal Wind: refers to the component of wind that blows parallel to lines of latitude,
typically in an east-west or west-east direction.
4. Zoning Law: s in the context of aviation refer to the set of regulations and policies
that govern land use and development in and around airports. These laws are
designed to ensure safe and efficient airport operations while considering the impact
on surrounding communities.
5. A Zoom Climb: is an aviation manoeuvre where an aircraft climbs at a steep angle,
rapidly gaining altitude. This technique is predominantly used in military aviation
but can also apply to specific high-performance civilian jets.
6. Zulu Time – A term synonymous with UTC (Universal Coordinated Time), which
is the same as Greenwich Mean Time. Pilots file all flight plans in Zulu Time.