Flight Simulator

Use Microsoft’s Flight Simulator to fly around the world in various planes, experiencing real-time weather on a Windows PC or Xbox X.

                       

Overview

• Social
• Why Flight Simulator?
• XBox or Windows?
• Xbox X setup
• Games
• Play on Windows
• Play on a Mac
• Game controls
• Nautical miles and Knots
• Zulu = Greenich Mean Time = UTC
• Aviation terms
• Airplanes
• Social

With wars breaking out around the world, I splurged on a setup for the Microsoft Flight Simulator so I could fly around the world safely in various planes, for less than an average cruise.

The game is praised for its realism and scale – a fine example of how Microsoft Azure’s cloud computing platform can be used to run massive AI-powered processes that generate three-dimensional representations of cities, foliage, and other objects in UHD resolution based on real-world satellite images. Real-time weather data is also pulled from the cloud, allowing the game to simulate weather conditions at any location in the world.

Some criticized its loading times.

Microsoft Flight Simulator is one of the longest-running, best-known, and most comprehensive flight simulator programs on the market. It was an early product in the Microsoft application portfolio and differed significantly from Microsoft’s other software, which was largely business-oriented. Bruce Artwick’s company, subLOGIC, began Flight Simulator development in 1977. It runs on Microsoft Windows operating systems, and earlier for MS-DOS and Classic Mac OS.

At 2 million lines of code, it was one of the largest computer programs ever written at the time. initially distributed it for various personal computers. In 1981, Artwick was approached by Microsoft’s Alan M. Boyd who was interested in creating a “definitive game” that would graphically demonstrate the difference between older 8-bit computers, such as the Apple II, and the new 16-bit computers, such as the IBM PC, still in development. In 1982, Artwick’s company licensed a version of Flight Simulator for the IBM PC to Microsoft, which marketed it as Microsoft Flight Simulator 1.00.

In 2009, Aces Game Studio was closed down by Microsoft.

In 2014, Dovetail Games got rights by Microsoft to port the Gold Edition of Microsoft’s Flight Simulator X to Steam and publish it under the new title Microsoft Flight Simulator X: Steam Edition.

In 2015, Dovetail also announced Flight School, a new flight simulator.

In 2016, Dovetail announced Flight Simulator X: Acceleration, an expansion pack for Flight Simulator X only available as a download from Games for Windows – Live and Steam.

In 2017, Dovetail announced Flight Sim World, a new flight simulator that built on the foundations of Flight Simulator X.

In 2018, Dovetail announced that Flight Sim World would be discontinued on May 24, 2018, due to lack of sales.

Jorg Neumann, head of Microsoft Flight Simulator

On August 18, 2020, Microsoft released Microsoft Flight Simulator to generally positive reviews. The new simulator is built on a new in-house engine named Asobo developed for the game. The game features a realistic simulation of the entire Earth using textures and topographical data from Bing Maps. The game also features a dynamic weather system that simulates real-world weather conditions of each location.

The 2024 edition has jobs, Air Racing, multi-core:

• 2024 by ObsidianAnt
• VIDEO:
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uryswyPFgU0
  
  

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Social

https://forums.flightsimulator.com

https://www.reddit.com/r/Flightsimulator2020/

https://www.flightsimassociation.com/

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Why Flight Simulator?

Can you get a Private Pilot’s License by playing Microsoft Flight Simulator?

Most say no because students need hours in an actual plane. In the USA you have the option of:

• Part 61 (usually via a local flying club with a private instructor) or
• Part 141 (via a registered flight school).
  
  

To get a Private Pilot certificate, it takes “a minimum cost of around $10,000” based on:

• The hourly rate of your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). Most CFI’s in the USA charge anywhere between $50 and $70 per hour.
• The hourly rate or aircraft rental, typically $100-$150 per hour in a Piper Archer, Cessna 152, or 172 Skyhawk
• Hours of flight time. Most students require around 40 hours of flight time to obtain their certificate
• Ground based-training
• Aviation Headset with ANR $1,299
• Test Preparation
• Test fees
  
  

To get an Instrument rating to fly at night and in bad weather, budget an additional $10,000:

• FAA examiner test fees $8,000.
  
  

However, some say the game is more fun if you are comfortable with aviation terminology:

• Aviation Terminology (below)
• What “you are cleared to runway 230” (compass numbers) means
• Alpha Bravo Charlie and other names for each letter of the alphabet
• Airport codes
  
  

Books: PROTIP: Your public library may have a copy.

• $26.96 FAA FAR/AIM 2024: Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual (ASA FAR/AIM Series) Paperback – September 5, 2023 from Titles 14 and 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 and 49 CFR)
  
  

ATP offers at 85 locations around the US a 9-month immersion program to career airline pilot program for a fixed fee of $108,995 starting from zero time or $86,995 starting with credit for private.

“There will be a day where we no longer choose our friends based on the console they own.”

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XBox or Windows?

Flight Simulator runs on both XBox X and Windows 10/11.

Windows machines provide more realism (less aliasing), but you need a “gamer” PC with fast CPU and plenty of drive space, plus a powerful video card.

Windows machines can produce better sound, if it has a good sound board.

Windows machines allow use of 3rd-party apps such as DS4Windows & DS5Windows, an open-source gamepad input mapper and virtuals emulator to use a PlayStation controller (DualShock 3/4 and DualSense 5) to mimic an XBox controller on Windows 10/11 PC.

Windows machines can also play simulators from others, such as:

• War Thunder
  
  

Other flight simulators on XBox & XboxOne:

• Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown for XBox One.
• $4.04 Start Wars: Squadrons - Xbox
  
  

PROTIP: Control support on PC is significantly better than on the Xbox. That cinches it for me.

• Set custom views by pressing Control button and a number.
  
  

Additional memory can be added to the Xbox but not faster CPU.

PROTIP: A desktop Windows box can run customization executables.

• VIDEO: SayIntentions.ai installs on Windows to use ChatGPT to mimic Air Traffic Control conversations.
  
  

PROTIP: Updates appear at the same time. But new Aircraft add-ons appear first on PCs before on Xbox.

Build your own PC:

• https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-build-a-pc/
• https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-build-a-pc-the-ultimate-beginners-guide
• https://pcpartpicker.com/
• https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-build-a-pc/

Windows Store install:

• C:\Users[YourUserName]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.FlightSimulator_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages
  For the Steam install:
• C:\Users[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.FlightDashboard_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalCache\Packages\

VIDEO: Start here

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Xbox X setup

PROTIP: View videos and learn aviation and avionics terms before spending a bunch of money.

References:

• Polygon’s accessories guide
• When you’ve gone too far
• G-LOC MEDIA
  
  

If XBox X doesn’t power up:

1. Make sure the power plug you’re using for the XBox works by plugging a lamp in it.
2. Press and hold ( on the side with the DVD slot ) the BIND button at the lower right (the one to SYNC controllers) AND the EJECT button AND the Xbox button on the console.
3. Continue holding the BIND and EJECT buttons for 10-15 seconds.

4. Listen for two “power-up” tones a couple of seconds apart.

   Note: If you don’t hear two power-up tones after 15 seconds, it means this failed. Likewise, if you hear any “power-down” chirps, that also means this failed.

5. You can release the BIND and EJECT buttons after the second power-up tone.
6. The console should start and show the Troubleshooting screen.
7. Choose “Reset this Xbox” and then “Keep games and apps”.
   
   

VIDEO: Use Alexa/Google to control the controller:

1. In XBox General: Power mode & startup: Power mode: Instant-on
2. In Alexa app: install XBox skill. Activate skill.
3. In Devices & Connections: Digital assistants: Enable
   
   

Videos:

• VIDEOs: Microsoft Flight Simulator - Tutorials 13 of them.
• Real A320 Pilot Plays Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 - Realistic 2 HOUR A320 NEO Full Flight in 4K
• VIDEO: Squirrel’s Microsoft Flight Simulator - Tutorials” playlist
• RECOMMENDED: ULTIMATE SETTINGS GUIDE by “At the peak”
  
  

Books: PROTIP: Your public library may have a paper copy.

• $24 Microsoft Flight Simulator for Dummies book.
• $10.99 MASTERING XBOX SERIES X: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Microsoft’s Next-Gen Console and Game Pass Subscription Service
  
  

Fast internet - WARNING: Some users report that downloads take 2 hours.

• Most gamers today play with others over the internet rather than play single-person offline.
  
  

PROTIP: If you’re using the XBox to ONLY play Flight Simulator and no other game (such as Disneyland, Roblox, Lego, Minecraft, Jeopardy, Halo, Tom Clancy, Fortnight, Call of Duty, Forza racing, Grand Theft Auto, Madden, MLB, FC soccer, PGA, Sims, Space Engineers, etc.), consider buying the $119.99 Microsoft Flight Simulator 40th Anniversary – Premium Deluxe – Xbox Series X|S, Windows [Digital Code]. This requires a download of 157 GB.

For $30 more, the $119.99 Premium Deluxe 40th Anniversary Edition includes everything from the Deluxe Edition plus 5 additional highly accurate planes with unique flight models and 5 additional handcrafted international airports.

• Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner
• Cirrus Aircraft SR22
• Pipistrel Virus SW 121
• Textron Aviation Cessna Citation Longitude
• Zlin Aviation Shock Ultra
  
  Premium Deluxe Additional Airports
• Denver International Airport (USA)
• Dubai International Airport (United Arab Emirates)
• Frankfurt Airport (Germany)

• Heathrow Airport (United Kingdom)
  
  

• Additional aircraft can be purchased in-game for $15 each.

• VIDEO: Ranking the BEST Payware aircraft MSFS 2024

• https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/backward-compatibility
• Only digital purchases will work on Xbox One S.
• XBox XS does not play games requiring the Kinect sensor. BOO!
  
  

You don’t need to buy the game if you have a subscription like Netflix. Starting September 14, 2023, Xbox Live Gold transitioned to Xbox Game Pass Core, which provides access to 25 games at a time.

• Game Pass (Live Gold) enables multi-player mode for playing with others online.

• WARNING: Flight Simulator requires the $16.99/month ($203.88/year) subscription service, NOT the $9.95/month “CORE” subscription.
• Xbox Game Pass is a from Microsoft for use with its Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles and Windows 10 PCs.

• PROTIP: At Costco, buy a $100 gift card for $$89.99 provides a 10% discount plus a 2% - 4% if you pay with the Costco credit card. Get the emailed order number and paste into website memberedelivery.com to view the digital code for copy and paste onto the Microsoft redemption site at https://account.microsoft.com/billing/redeem
  
  

• To play on PC, purchase at STEAM ONLY ??

• Getting MSFS via the XBox games pass subscription allows the SAME unlimited use of the sim on BOTH platforms, XBox AND PC. But it only lasts as long as you have the subscription.

How I build a rig

VR glasses! - HP Reverb G2 VR with 4320-by-2160 pixel resolution

4K UHD 120Hz TV or monitor:

• The XBox X output to 4K UHD (1440p) at 120Hz with HDR (High Dynamic Range).
  WARNING: Many TVs only support 4K UHD at 60Hz vs. 120Hz.
• Many (older) monitors don’t support the 120hz speed that XBox games can use. But when a game runs at 120hz speed, XBox reduces its resolution at 1080p. So the game can’t make full use of 4k60 panels.

• The 15.6-inch screen on a gamer Windows laptop PC is too small, but more portable than an Xbox.

• For maximum wow: $1,199 Optoma UHD35STx Short Throw True 4K UHD Gaming and Home Entertainment Projector 3,600 Lumens for Lights-On Viewing 240Hz Refresh Rate and Ultra-Low 4ms Response Time. It needs a highly reflective screen:

• $199 Elite Screens Manual B 120-INCH Manual Pull Down Projector Screen Diagonal 16:9 Diag 4K 8K 3D Ultra HDR HD Ready Home Theater Movie Theatre White Projection Screen with Slow Retract Mechanism M120H

• The XBox X does not support ultra-wide monitors.
  Windows machines do.

• The Xbox X only has one HDMIv2 monitor out plug.
  Many Windows machines support dual monitors via GPU such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090.

• “Multi-screen support” in games means having one screen split either horizontally or vertically to allow two or more players to share a single screen.

• A HDMI splitter box can split the signal to multiple monitors, but the same image would appear on both screens.
  
  

• VIDEO: 2023 Flight Controller Buying Guide For Both Xbox & PC - Low, Mid & High End Budgets!
  
  

• VIDEO: Building the ultimate components of 32 GB, blue-water-cooled.
• VIDEO: Benchmark tests of Windows PC components (AMD vs Intel, Nvidia vs AMD) for Flight Simulator 2020.
  
  

Console “optimized” for Xbox Series X|S:

• $459 XBox X console with a single controller. 1 TB SSD, 16 GB RAM
• Costco’s bundle with a second controller (and 3 months of Game Pass) for $599 is too expensive IMHO.
• PROTIP: On the Xbox consoles is a center (green) button to take pictures. Click it twice to share pictures. The button also is where you can reassign what each button does.
• You can get controllers with customized colors and rubberized grips.
  
  

If you play a lot of different games, add external storage:

• PROTIP: Xbox does not play games from off-the-shelf USB 3.1 drives. But you can shuffle files on and off.
• Seagate SSD expansion cards ($219 for 1TB, $400 for 2TB) plugs into the “Velocity achitecture” plug on the expansion slot on the side of the Xbox. They are hot-swappable.
  
  

For better cooling fan and dust cover: VIDEO:

• Floating Grip Wall Mount allows for better airflow off the floor.
• 36.99 G-STORY Top-out cooling fan with Has temperature LED read-out
• 38.69 Vertical charging stand for 2 controllers with cooling fan.
• $35.99 Cooling Fan with removable dust cover. colorful RGB Light Strip Low Noise Top Fan with 3 Gears, Independent Touch Switch, 2 USB Port
  
  

UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power surges and outages to Console, TV, etc.

• $179.99 UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, BX1500M Backup Battery Power Supply, AVR, Dataline Protection
  
  

“Boeing” yoke - one that is compatible with Xbox X and PC:

• $379 VIDEO: for a Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flight Universal Control System - Xbox Series X & Xbox Series S, Xbox One & Windows 10 & 11 PCs with Yoke Handle, Throttle Quadrant, Trim Wheel & Rudder Controls
• $399 Honeycomb Alpha yoke and pedals
• Logitech G920 steering wheel and pedals.
• Saitek
  
  

Rudder peddles for flight sim

• $299 Turtle Beach VelocityOne Universal Rudder Pedals for Windows 10 & 11 PCs, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One Featuring Smooth Rudder Axis, Adjustable Brakes and Pedal Width – Black

Joystick for Airbus and figher jets: VIDEO

• $129.96 Turtle Beach Velocity One (1st one for XBox & PCs) - “not compatible with ANY rudder pedals”?
• $199.99 Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit with foot pedals (Compatible with XBOX Serie X/S, One, PC)
• $99 Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One (Compatible with XBOX Series X/S & XOne and PC). 5 axes plus 14 action buttons plus 1 rapid-fire trigger plus 1 multidirectional hat switch (navigation/panoramic view) - frequently returned
• Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro USB Joystick for Windows - Black/Silver
• Hotas Warthog
• $499 Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog Flight Stick (Windows)
  
  

Steering wheel and pedals for racing games

• $249 Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel and Floor Pedals, Real Force Feedback, Stainless Steel Paddle Shifters, Leather Steering Wheel Cover for Xbox Series X\S, Xbox One, PC, Mac - Black
  
  

• Different seats for different games (Forza Motorsport racing, etc.)

Stand desk for controls:

• PROTIP: Adjustability is key to satisfaction. So first try three adjustable rolling bed-side tables like at hospitals.
• $49.99 Techni Mobili Rolling Adjustable Laptop Cart, Graphite

• $49.99 each TigerDad Overbed Bedside Desk Mobile Rolling Laptop Stand Tilting Overbed Table with Wheels Height Adjustable Tray Table for Laptop Bed Sofa Side Table (Black)

• $199 OpenWheeler GEN3 Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit Red on Black | Fits All Logitech G923 | G29 | G920 | Thrustmaster | Fanatec Wheels | Compatible with Xbox One, PS4, PC Platforms</a>
• $79 2 Set The Desk Mount for The Flight Sim Game Joystick, Throttle and Hotas Systems Compatible with Logitech X56, X52, Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas,Thrustmaster T.16000M, Thrustmaster TCA,Wining orion 2
  
  

Chair with a frame to hold the wheel and pedals in various positions:

• $169 Wheel Stand Pro TB Flight Stand Compatible with Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flight Yoke, Throttle and TB rudders, Also Compatible with Saitek/Logitech Rudders.
• $158.99 Wheel Stand Pro S Flight Stand Compatible With G Saitek Pro Flight/Cessna Yoke System; Yoke Support; Deluxe V2; Wheel Stand Only Flight System Not included. Not Compatible w/Honeycomb
• $1,199 Playseat Flight Seat - Flight Simulator Gaming Chair for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch, Mac - Fully Adjustable Leatherette Seat - PlayStation Official License

Here’s how you can really splurge:

There are seat frames that mimic the feel of flight simulators real pilots train on. The more DOF (Degrees of Freedom), the higher the cost (and the potential for motion sickness):

• For 2 DOF (Pitch forward/backward and Roll left/right), $799 DOF Reality Motion Simulator Platform H2
• For 3 DOF (, $1,199 DOF Reality Motion Simulator Platform H3
  
  

More durable “Pro” series have SFU drive system makes it very quiet especially compared to actuator-based platforms (Prosimu, SimXperience, etc).

headset with a microphone (needs to be XBox compatible)

• $318.37 Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Multiplatform Wireless Noise-Cancelling Gaming Headset for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, PC, Mac, Switch, & Mobile – 50mm Speakers, Bluetooth, Dual Batteries – Black
  
  

Camera (for streaming and making videos)

• $129 Opal Tadpole - USB Microphone for Laptops - 2 Directional Microphones for Recording Meetings, Interviews, Video Calls, and More
  
  

Game Capture device to record gameplay for streaming and making videos

• $149 Elgato Game Capture HD60 S - Stream and Record in 1080p60, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & PS4
  
  

Games

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQX_Bzj3oD4&t=2m2s Budget price: $60 FS2020: 2023 Flight Controller Buying Guide For Both Xbox & PC - Low, Mid & High End Budgets!

Play on Windows

Windows wins in the argument is simply because its users can play Xbox through Xbox Play Anywhere.

Play on a Mac

Mac users need third-party streaming software to download and play games on their devices.

Xbox Cloud Gaming was launched by Microsoft in 2019 after three years of work on the competitor Google Stadia and NVIDIA GeForce Now.

Being a Progressive Web App made it possible for Mac users to play Xbox games anywhere and from any device.

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to turn it on
2. Press and hold the connect button on your controller to enter pairing mode
3. Open System Preferences on your Mac

4. Click on Bluetooth and select your Xbox controller from the list

5. Open Safari browser on your Mac.
6. Go to https://xbox.com/en-us/play
7. Click “Sign In” and log in with your Microsoft account.
8. Click “Search games” and type enough of “Flight Simulator” to click on the image for the game.
9. Click “PLAY WITH ULTIMATE” and pay for the $16.99/month ($203.88/year) subscription. If you have a coupon from buying hardware with several months of initial subscription, click that. Otherwise, click “$1 for 14 days”.
10. Find a game on the list and click Play
    
    

To mirror your Mac’s screen to a TV using only a wireless connection, JustStream casts media files and video games in any format to almost any kind of TV device out there and customize how you stream by scaling your display to get the best quality, as well as choosing subtitles, encoding, fonts, and colors.

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Game controls

View your plane (and the scenery) from outside by going into “Drone Mode”.

Press Y to.

F3 to move up. F3 to move up quickly.

To accellerate time, press R on keyboard, then control plus. Or control minus to slow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXgGXILioRo

Pilot Emile

How to Land by Squirrel

Career Add-ons

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Nautical miles and Knots

The “Statue Miles” commonly used in the US is based on an arbitrary length of feet.

VIDEO: A nautical mile used by sailors and aviators is based on a fraction of the Earth’s circumference of 21,600 meters at the equator, split into 360 degrees. So 21,600 / 360 = 60 meters per degree.

The derived unit of speed is the knot, one nautical mile per hour.

Each degree is divided into 60 minutes.

A nautical mile is 1/60 of a degree of latitude, defined as 1,852 metres (about 6,076 feet or 1.151 mi).

1,853 metres (which is 6,079.40 ft).

A statute mile is 86.9% of that.

Zulu = Greenich Mean Time = UTC

WIKIPEDIA:

Most international machines are set to UTC/GMT time to avoid calculating complications of time zones. See my calendar.

Portable clocks that kept time on GMT revolutionized sailing (from 1890s England) because it made for more accurate wayfinding. The more accurate a pilot’s timepiece, the more accurately he can calculate his local longitude.

The GMT/UTC is referenced because the amount of hours and minutes between local time and UTC/GMT provides the basis for calculating local longitude location.

• Multiply the difference in hours by 15.
• Multiply the difference in minutes by 0.25
  
  

Every degree West or East from UTC/GMT is 4 minutes.

To measure the Latitude:

VIDEO: Historically, sailors calculate the latitude using a sextant to identify the Declination (the number of degrees and minutes between the sun and the horizon). The declination is measured on the sextant because a semi-transparent “index” mirror (invented by John Newton) brings the sun down to appear like it’s sitting on top of the horizon. (Staring into the sun is why pirates wear eye patches. So wear sunglasses.)

The angle needed to bring the sun to meet a horizon is what the sextant reports. Divide that in half if you’re using the artificial horizon. Every decimal of arc is 200 yards at the equator.

A “Vernier” knob makes fine adjustments for seconds of arc (60 parts per minute). Each second of error is a nautical mile. In the Northern Hemisphere, 51 minutes of arc

When the sextant is used at Noon (the middle of the day), when the sun reaches its Zenith (highest point) for the day.

VIDEO: On land, read the angle between the sun and its reflection on a cup of liquid. VIDEO: In the air, an early aviator used a bubble to act as an artificial horizon.

If you don’t have a watch, you can identify Noon by a stick and marking the path of the stick’s shadow.

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Aviation terms

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

From these sites:

• https://www.aircharterserviceusa.com/about-us/news-features/blog/an-a-z-of-aviation-definitions
  
  

A

• AC = Advisory circular
• A/C = Airconditioning Unit
• Absolute altitude - The vertical distance of the aircraft above the ground, measured from the ground to the aircraft’s position in the air.
• Absolute ceiling = maximum aircraft’s altitude that can be reached for flying at full throttle, constant airspeed, and leveled position
• ACARS = Airline communications and reporting system
• Accelerated stall = Stall happening at a higher airspeed than usual due to a higher load factor (g). This stall generally happens when the aircraft is going straight up or straight down and by making abrupt turns or control inputs in general.
• ACP = Audio Control Panel - a dashboard with buttons and knobs for the pilot to select the audio settings for reception and transition and for both communication and navigation radio frequencies.
• Actuator = component that deflects a control surface or, in hydraulics, moves a structure such as a landing gear
• AD = Airworthiness Directive. Maintenance or modification ordered by FAA.
• ADS-B = Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast - the main technology used for aircraft tracking. It automatically sends position data from the aircraft, with no need for pilot intervention.
• ADC = Air Data Computer
• ADF = Automatic Direction Finder - an electronic device that helps navigation by identifying the relative position and bearing of an aircraft from a radio beacon transmitting in the MF or LF bandwidth, like a Non-Directional Beacon or commercial radio broadcast station.
• ADI = Attitude direction indicator
• Adiabatic Lapse Rate = when there is thermal equilibrium, the temperature changes resulting from altitude increases and decreases.
• ADS = Automatic Dependent Surveillance

• Adverse yaw - when the nose of the aircraft is moving away from the direction to the turn being performed. It also occurs when using ailerons, and the aircraft moves in the opposite direction of a roll due to the difference in lift and drag of each wing.

• AES = Aircraft Earth station
• AFCS = Automatic flight control system
• AFD = Adaptive flight displays
• AFDS = Autopilot flight director system
• AFIS = Automated flight information system (AlliedSignal)
• AGL = Above Ground Level - the vertical distance measured from the aircraft to a specific mass of land.
• AHRS = Attitude-heading reference system
• AI = Altitude indicator
• Aileron = A small hinged portion of an airplane’s wing, used to make an airplane roll, or turn around its long axis.
• AIM = Aeronautical Information Manual - a highly detailed official publication issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that provides instructions on how pilots must operate within the US National Airspace System, Air Traffic Control (ATC) procedures, and aviation safety. There are separate guides for the USA and Canada.
• air data = Values cmputed from pitot, static and temperature measurements, usually by means of a digital computer; ARINC 575 defines outputs

• A&P = Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic - the certified person to carry out maintenance and alterations on an aircraft in an independent manner.

• Air Defense Identification Zone = to identify which zone belongs to each country and for national security purposes. So, Air Defense Identification Zone, usually abbreviated by the acronym ADIZ, refers to the airspace requiring identification, location, and control of civil aircraft for national security purposes, including airspace over land and over water.
• Aircraft age = defines how old an aircraft is, usually counting from the first flight and considering both flying hours and pressurization cycles. It is not the same to have an airplane whose first flight was 10 years ago but has only flown 10,000 hours with 1,000 cycles than having an aircraft that first flew 5 years ago but has already flown 50,000 hours with 10,000 cycles.
• Aircraft livery = the graphic design painted on it. Airlines often have a distinctive livery and create special liveries supporting events, anniversaries, or advertising campaigns.
• Aircraft type = the standardized name for the aircraft, usually assigned to groups of aircraft with specific characteristics. Assigning the type code is done by ICAO. The codes are formed by two to four letters and numbers. The main use for the type codes is to simplify the identification of the aircraft when filing flight plans.</p>
• Air Taxi Operator = a company that offers services according to FAR Part 135. This means the company operates small aircraft in the categories of turbojet engine powered aircraft with 1 to 30 seats, non-transport category turbo-propeller powered aircraft with 10 to 19 seats, and transport category turbo propellers with 20 to 30 seats. In general, small aircraft, normally under 30 seats. When carrying cargo, it should not exceed 18,000 pounds, and the company should work on either a scheduled or charter basis, on an on-demand basis or limited scheduled basis.
• Airfoil = A surface, such as an airplane wing, shaped to produce more lift than resistance when driven through the air. The shape of the cross-section of a surface that generates the lift necessary to flight when the air passes over it. Common surfaces on a plane with an airfoil include wings, blades, turbines, and rotors.
• Airline = the name used for the company or organization that manages and offers scheduled flights and routes on a regular basis.

• Airspace Classes = the types of airspace as defined by ICAO and adopted around the world. The airspace classes include controlled, uncontrolled, and special use.

• All-weather fighter = A radar-equipped jet fighter airplane which can operate at night or in the worst weather
• All-weather interceptor = A radar-equipped jet fighter airplane which can operate at night or in the worst weather
• AM = Amplitude modulation
• AME = Aviation Medical Examiner, also known as Aero-Medical Examiner (U.S.) - a physician who has been given the authority to issue the corresponding medical certificates for flight operation.
• AMLCD = Active-matrix liquid crystal display
• AMOC = (logbook term – Alternate Method Of Compliance – with an AD, requires FAA LOA)
• AMT = Aviation Maintenance Technician - a common name for an aircraft mechanic
• Anhedral = The downward angle or inclination of an the wing of an aircraft in relation to a horizontal line in the cross-section of it.
• Annual Inspection = A thorough inspection of an aircraft ( airframe and powerplant ) required every year.
• ANR = Noise Reduction

• AOA = Angle-of-attack

• AP = Auto Pilot
• Approach = the flight phase before landing is where the pilot prepares to take the aircraft to the ground.
• APR = Auxiliary Power Reserve
• Apron = The area of an airport prepared for the aircraft to park, fuel, load, and unload.

• APU = Auxiliary Power Unit - usually a jet engine located in the tail cone of an aircraft to provide autonomy for operation without needing external equipment like a ground power unit, an external air-conditioning unit, or a high-pressure air start cart.

• ARINC = Aeronautical Radio, Inc. A nonprofit corporation owned by member airlines to define form, fit and function of avionics equipment and to provide radio communication services
• ARINC 419 = Digital information transfer characteristics as applied in ARINC 500-series equipment specifications
• ARINC 547 = Digital specification for ILS reference sensors
• ARINC 561 = Inertial navigation system specifications
• ARINC 568 = Inertial sensor DME reference specification
• ARINC 571 = Inertial sensor attitude-heading reference system specifications
• ARINC 575 = Digital air-data system specifications
• ARINC 700-series = All-digital equipment specifications for new-generation transport category aircraft

• ARINC 743 = All-digital specificaitons for FANS-1 compatibilty

• ASA = Autoland status annunciator
• ASCB = Avionics standard communication bus (Honeywell)

• ASI = Air Speed Indicator - a flight instrument of the pitot-static type that indicates the aircraft’s airspeed flying through an air mass and measured in miles per hour, knots, or both of them.

• A/T = Auto throttle
• ATC = Air Traffic Control - The people in control towers (at airports that have them) to regulate takeoffs, landings, and planes moving through their general area.
• ATI and ATR = ARINC from factors
• ATIS = Automatic Terminal Information Service = pre-compiled messages broadcasting on an airwave frequency at international airports. ATIS information includes weather conditions and runway use, approach type, and approachable style, and air traffic controllers usually provide it.
• ATM = Air traffic management
• ATP = Airline Transport Pilot (the “highest” grade of pilot certificate)
• Audio Panel = Electronic device used to switch between radios
• Autogyro = An aircraft equipped with a rotating wing, or rotor, to sustain itself in the air, and a propeller to move forward
• AUX Fuel = Auxiliary fuel tanks
• Avionics Master Switch - the main and only switch on an aircraft to control the electrical systems and electronic equipment for navigation and communications.
• AWACS = Airborne Warning And Control System [Pronounced “AY-wax.”] - an electronically very souped-up Boeing 707.
• AWIS = Aerodrome Weather Information Service - a system to collect, process, and transmit the most important weather data for air traffic control.

B

• Base Leg - the flight path that has the aircraft descending in the direction of the landing on the runway.
• Barnstormer = A pilot who, in the early years of aviation, gave airplane rides to people and performed aerobatics for a fee.
• Basic Operating Weight (BOW) = Empty weight typically equipped + unusable fuel and trapped liquids + 2 pilots (400 lbs.) + supplies
• BCD = Binary coded decimal
• Beam width = The included angle of a weather radar interrogation signal
• Bendix = Avionics manufacturer

• Best Lift Over Drag Ratio - the highest value of lift to drag ratios for any airfoil, which is frequently referred to as ‘L over D Max’.

• BITE = Built-In Test Equipment
• Bleed Air = High pressure air ducted from engine to pressurize cabin and other uses
• Black boxes - an informal name given to the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR ) and the Flight Data Recorders (FDR). However, the truth is that most of them are bright orange in order to be found easily in case of a crash. Apart from that, they are crash-resistant and equipped with beacons to make the work of locating them easier and quicker.
• Blade Angle - in a propeller blade, the angle between the reference line and a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
• Bleed Air - compressed high pressure hot air produced by an aircraft engine during operation, used for de-icing and heating the jet.
• Boeing = The Boeing Company, with headquarters in Seattle, Washington, U.S., is the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial airplanes and one of the nation’s largest exporters. The company is a major U.S. government contractor, with capabilities in space systems, helicopters, military airplanes, missile systems, information and electronic systems and software products.”
• Boots = Inflatable device on leading edge of wings and tail. Used to remove ice
• Bracing wire = A solid steel wire used to support the structure of an airplane’s wings or fuselage
• BRG = Bearing
• BSU = Beam steering unit

C

• CAA = Civil Aviation Authority - the regulator of civil aviation in the UK since its foundation in 1972.
• CAAC = Civil Aviation Administration of China - the aviation regulator for the People’s Republic of China with headquarters in Beijing.
• CAB = Civilian Aviation Board
• Calibrated altitude = a constant value used in aviation and other applications for a measure with respect to the Mean Sea Level.
• CAS = Calibrated Airspeed - the airspeed indicated in the instruments after correction for position and instrument error. It is equal to True Airspeed (TAS) at sea level. KCAS is an abbreviation used when Calibrated Airspeed is measured in knots. The term ‘reflected airspeed’ is used in some countries.
• Cabin Crew - the team working for an airline to provide safety and comfort for the passengers during a flight, typically called flight attendants.
• Cabin pressurization - A mechanism used to maintain air pressure in an airplane’s sealed cabin at a level suitable for passengers
• Call sign - a type of notation used by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to identify a specific flight. Call signs are usually different from flight numbers for two main reasons: First of all, for reasons of history or for easy understanding over the radio. Secondly, flights have been using alphanumeric call signs recently to avoid call sign confusion when flights with similar numbers may be talking to the same air traffic controller.
• Camber - The level of convexity measured on the wing of an aircraft.
• Canard - An airplane designed to have its normal horizontal tail surface on the front rather than the rear of its fuselage
• Caster - To swivel or rotate slightly

• CAVU = Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited - the ideal flying and visual meteorological conditions with visibility of 10 or more miles and a ceiling of at least 10,000 feet.

• Category I (CAT I) = An ILS facility providing operation down to a 200 foot decision height and an RVR of not less than 2,400 feet
• Category II (CAT II) = An ILS facility providing operation down to a 100-foot decision height and an RVR of not less than 1,200 feet
• Category IIIa (CAT IIIa) = An ILS facility providing operation with no decision height to and along the surface of the runway with external visual reference during the final phase of landing and with an RVR of not less than 7000 feet
• Category IIIb (CAT IIIb) = An ILS facility providing operation with no decision height limit to and along the surface of the runway without reliance on external visual reference and, subsequently, taxiing with an external RVR of not less than 150 feet
• Category IIIc (CAT IIIc) = An ILS facility providing operation with no decision height limit to and alsont the surface of the runway and taxiways without reliance on external visual reference
• CAVU = Ceiling And Visibility Unlimited. Perfect flying weather — no major clouds, no major haze
• CD-ROM = Compact disc read-only memory - media holding data

• CDI = Course Deviation Indicator - a navigational instrument that shows whether the aircraft is to the right or left of the desired course. It is indicated by the needle in the VOR indicator, so whenever the aircraft is flying left of the selected course, the needle deflects proportionally to the right, and when the aircraft is flying right of the selected course, the needle deflects proportionally to the left.

• CDU = Control-display unit
• Ceiling - the height of cloud layers or similar weather phenomena that may block or reduce visibility.
• Centre-pod configuration = A type of airplane whose fairly short fuselage is not connected to the tail surfaces
• CESC = Cescom Maintenance Program
• CFI = Certified Flight Instructor
• Charter = when a person or a company rents the entire aircraft instead of individual seats. It is common for business people to charter private jets.
• Chord Line = the imaginary line on an airfoil that goes from the leading edge to the trailing edge of it.
• Clearance = the word used air traffic control or the control tower grants permission for an aircraft to proceed with a particular action in controlled airspace with the purpose of preventing aircraft collisions.
• Climb = an aviation term referring to the stage of a flight where the pilot increases the altitude trying to reach a specific level. It usually happens immediately after takeoff. However, it is also common for some routes to require what is known as “step climb”, which is an additional increase while flying on the designated route.
• CMOS = Complementary metal oxide semiconductor
• CMU = Communications management unit
• CNS = Communications, navigation and surveillance
• Cockpit = the part of the aircraft where the pilot and co-pilot seat and where the flight instruments and panels are located. This is normally at the front of the aircraft.
• Codeshare flight = a flight where two different airlines show their own designater while referring to the same flight upon agreement. This is common when one airline operates the flight but partner airlines advertise the flight under their own code for marketing purposes, especially when the aircraft operator changes in connections until reaching the final destination. This simplifies the booking steps, as the passenger can take one single ticket while the flight involves two or more carriers.
• CofA = Certificate of Airworthiness - the formal document issued by the National Aviation Authority (NAA) to certify that an aircraft is airworthy.
• Coherent detection = A technique used in certain ADF receivers to improve useful range
• Collins = Avionics manufacturer
• COM = Communications
• Commuter = a category of aircraft defined by the FAA as “limited to propeller-driven, multi-engine airplanes that have a seating configuration, excluding pilot seats, of 19 or less, and a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 19,000 pounds or less. The commuter category operation is limited to any maneuver incident to normal flying, stalls (except whip stalls), and steep turns, in which the angle of bank is not more than 60 degrees.”
• Comosite video = Analog VOR receiver output before processing
• Constant-Speed Propeller - a propeller with the capability to maintain a steady engine RPM by increasing and decreasing the blade pitch automatically.
• Cost index = a number, generally between 0-100, entered into an aircraft’s Flight Management System (FMS) as a way of meeting aircraft operational requirements. This number comes from the calculation of fuel vs time-related costs. With an optimized cost index, it is possible to achieve the right balance between the cost of fuel and the cost of time.
• Contrail = a stream or a trail of condensed vapor that becomes visible in the air when the engines of an aircraft produce heat while flying at a high altitude.
• CONT = Teledyne-Continental (an engine manufacturer)
• Controlled Airspace = the class of airspace where ATC instructs pilots regarding aircraft movement and regulations. The main goal is to have controllers provide safe and efficient routes for all aircraft within the airspace. Also, this class of airspace is designed to create national security, which is why it requires specific qualifications for pilots and aircraft, so they can get clearance to enter the space.
• Contact digitizer = A mechanical device that converts analog information to digital codes by means of electrical contacts
• Crosswind = the kind of wind that blows in a direction not parallel to the flight path.
• Cowling = A removable metal covering placed over and around an airplane’s engine(s)
• C/R = Counter-rotating propellers
• Cross-over exhaust = A mechanism through which the exhaust from one side of an inline engine is carried to the other
• CRT = Cathode ray tube
• CSDB = Commercial standard data bus
• CTAF = Common Traffic Advisory Frequency - the VHF radio frequency used for air-to-air communication in the US, Canada, and Australia where some airports close their control towers but keep the runways operative for some cargo operations.
• CVR = Cockpit Voice Recorder - device that records crew conversations for use in accident investigations
• CW = Continuous wave. A radio carrier broadcast that does not have modulation
• Cycles = Pertains to turbine engines: Cycle begins with starting, continues through full-power, and ends with shutdown

D

• DA = Drift angle
• DA = density altitude = the air density given as a height above mean sea level.
• DADC = Digital air-data computer
• dB = Decibel
• De-icing = The process of removing snow, ice, or frost that builds up on different parts of an aircraft, especially the wings. Normally, de-icing fluid is sprayed or heat applied to achieve the objective.
• Deadstick = a forced landing that happens under no propulsion conditions due to engine or propeller malfunction.
• Delivery flight = The first flight of an aircraft from manufacturing to the airport or airfield selected by the operator acquiring it.

• Descent = the opposite to climb, as it refers to the stage of a flight where the pilot decreases the altitude trying to reach a specific level. When the pilot begins descending to land at its destination, it is called “top of descent”. To guarantee oxygen levels for natural breathing during an emergency, especially when decompression occurs suddenly, the pilot will perform an emergency descent to below 10,000ft.

• DG = Directional gyro
• DGPS = Differential global positioning system. LA- prefix refers to local area DGPS; WA- prefix refers to wide-area DGPS signal retransmission schemes
• Digitizer = Any electronic device capable of converting information to a digital format; usually refers to encoding devices that convert sensed altitude into a transponder code
• Distress = A word used internationally as a signal for an aircraft to be in danger and need immediate assistance.
• DME = Distance Measuring Equipment = a radio navigation technology used to measure the distance between the aircraft and a ground station.
• DME = Designated Mechanic Examiner - the person in charge of granting the corresponding certificates to pilots and aircraft maintenance technicians.
• Downwash = the kind of air that deflects downwards from an aircraft wing or a rotor blade on a helicopter, usually during take-off.
• Downwind Leg = the flight path that goes parallel to the runway but in the opposite direction of the designated landing path.
• DP = Deal Pending
• DR = Ded (deduced) reckoning
• Drag = A force that is parallel but opposite to the aircraft movement as it flies through the air. This is the force that causes resistance and that must be overcome by the propulsion power for the aircraft to be able to fly.
• drms = Distance root mean squared
• DTK = Desired track
• DTU = Data transfer unit
• Duplex = Separate channels for transmitting and receiving

E

• EAROM = Electrically alterable read-only memory, a type of digital memory device
• EASA = European Aviation Safety Agency - a European Union agency established in 2002 with the task of overseeing civil aviation safety and regulation.
• EEPROM = Electrically erasable programmable read-only-memory
• EEVIP = Early Extended Validation Integration Program. An FAA program, first implemented for the Boeing 777, to give “out-of-the-box” ETOPS clearance to a new plane, rather than waiting for a couple of years of domestic service experience
• EFIS = Electronic Flight Instrument System
• EGT = Exhaust gas temperature indicator
• EICAS = Engine indicating and crew alerting system
• Elevator = The horizontal surface that controls aircraft pitch (the tilt of an airplane up or down). It is usually a small control surface hinged (articulated) to the rear of the horizontal stabilizer.
• Emergency overrun = The surface on the runway after the area for take-off. This surface is kept clear and it has the objective of reducing the damage to an aircraft if it is unable to take off and stop or stop after landing.
• Empennage = the tail assembly of an aircraft, which provides stability during flight. The empennage consists of a rudder, a fin, and a stabilizer.
• encal = Encoding Altimeter
• Encoder = Displays aircraft’s altitude on ground-based radar screens
• Engine cowl = A removable metal covering placed over and around an airplane’s engine
• EROS = Brand Name for Oxygen Mask
• ETA = Estimated Time of Arrival - the time when arriving at the destination is expected and it is given in the destination’s local time.
• ETD = Estimated Time of Departure - the time of takeoff from the point of origin of the flight.
• ETOPS = Extended Twin-engine operations. FAA designation of over-ocean flights far from possible emergency landing strips, in which the possibility of engine failure in a twin-engine plane represents a heightened risk. ETOPS certification is not normally given to a new passenger aircraft until it has been in regular domestic service for at least a year.
• ETE = Estimated Time en Route - the amount of time expected to be spent traveling to a destination.
• ETP = Equal time point - a position on a route where the time taken to return to the departure point, is the same as the time required to reach the arrival point. It is not necessarily the midpoint (in distance) of the route because head or tailwinds can affect where exactly the equal time point will be.
• Eurocontrol = The European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation. Based in Belgium, it is the umbrella organization of national air navigation service providers in Europe.

F

• FAA = Federal Aviation Administration - the top authority regulating civil aviation in the United States.
• FADEC = Full authority digital engine control
• Fairing = A section of aircraft surface, or an attached structure, designed to reduce drag. For example, the contoured sheet metal where wing meets fuselage
• FARs = Federal Aviation Regulations (U.S.) - the FAA rules applied to civil aviation in the U.S.
• FAR 36 Noise Levels = In order to meet FAR 36 Stage 3 requirements, the maximum noise level permitted is: Take Off 89.0 EPNdB, *Sideline 94.0, *Approach 98.0

• FBO = Fixed-Base Operator - a kind of business or organization that operates at an airport providing aircraft services like maintenance, fueling, flight training, charter services, hangar services, and parking.

• FDE = Fault detection and exclusion (GPS)
• FDR = Flight data recorder - devices used to constantly record a variety of flight parameters. In case of an accident or a major incident, they provide a forensic tool to help investigators understand what happened. FDRs are regulated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
• FDS = Flight Director System
• feathering = The action of varying the angle of propellers, rotor blades, or oars so as to reduce air or water resistance
• Ferry Flight - a type of flight that happens outside the regular flying operations of any carrier. These flights are usually carried out with the intention of returning an aircraft to the hub after maintenance or any other service, delivering a new aircraft to the organization acquiring it, moving an aircraft from one hub to another, or moving an aircraft to maintenance facilities.
• FFON = Flight Phone
• Final Approach - A flight path that is taken to land on the runway at the end of a flight route.
• FIR/UIR = Flight Information Region / Upper Information Region - geographic areas under the responsibility of ATC. The size of these two areas is variable and its size depends on the country’s decision or the agreement of all the countries that the region covers. Oceanic airspace has its own classification as an Oceanic Information Region.
• Five by five - A phrase used to confirm that radio reception is loud and clear on a scale of 1 to 5.
• FL = Flight level - the altitude of an aircraft at the standard air pressure, 1013.25 hPa (29.92 inHg). FL is expressed in hundreds of feet, for example, 42,000ft is expressed as FL420. FL is included in the flight plan so pilots can ensure vertical separation between aircraft is safe.
• Flaps - flat surfaces added to the edges of the wing that allow the pilot to adjust lift and drag by altering the curve of the wing enabling the aircraft to fly at lower speeds.
• FLARM = flight + alarm - similar to ADS-B, but used in light aircraft, such as helicopters and gliders. It consumes a lot less power than traditional transponders, which is why is a favorite for gliders. FLARM equipment installation is regulated by EASA.
• Flare - A required maneuver during landing to lower the descent rate that consists in pointing the nose of the aircraft upwards while descending towards the runway.The point where an airplane floats above the runway just before touchdown.
• Flight Data Recorder = Electronic device that records aircraft maneuvers. Used in accident investigations
• Flight Deck - another name given to the cockpit
• Flight number - the number applied by an airline in the schedule to identify a flight. Even numbers are usually applied to northbound and eastbound flights, and odd numbers are reserved for southbound and westbound flights. Larger flight numbers usually indicate a maintenance or positioning flight.
• Flight Phone = Air-to-ground telephone system
• Flight Plan - Important information filed by pilots or dispatchers, usually before a flight that includes the exact route with the specific waypoints the flight will pass over, timing, and other relevant data.

• Flying Dirty = An expression to describe an aircraft flying with landing gear, flaps, and other surfaces deployed in order to create drag.

• FM = Frequency modulation
• FMCS = Flight management computer system
• FMS = Flight Management System
• F/O = First Officer - the person coming behind the captain in the hierarchy, or which is the same, the second in command of the aircraft.
• FOG = Fiber-optic gyro
• Forward elevator = A control surface used to tilt an airplane up or down and mounted on the front rather than the rear of an airplane
• FSDO = Flight Standards District Office - a local authority overseen by the FAA.

• FSS = Flight Service Station - an organization providing information and services to pilots.

• Fuel tankering - An expression used to describe the process of adding more fuel to the tank of an aircraft than the amount required for the flight in hand, usually to make it possible to complete the return flight as well. There are operational purposes behind this practice, such as reducing fuel costs, using higher quality fuel, or avoiding refueling for increased operational efficiency.
• Full De-ice = Complete anti – and/or de-ice equipment installed on wings, tail, props, and windsheild
• Full Panel = All gyros necessary for instrument flight

G

• Galley = On-board meal service equipment
• Gas discharge = A type of luminescent digital display
• GCR = Ground clutter rejection
• GE = General Electric. They make aircraft engines
• General Aviation = The division of civil aviation aircraft operations except for commercial air transport and aerial work.

• George - The nickname was given to an aircraft autopilot system.

• Glass Cockpit - An aircraft that has its cockpit fully equipped with electronic, digital flight instrument displays instead of analog-style gauges.
• GLU = GNSS landing unit. Provides precision GPS guidance to the runway in Category III operations
• GNSS = Global navigation satellite system
• Go-Around - The flight pattern the pilot takes when a landing approach cannot be completed safely for any reason, and before trying to land again is called go-around. It usually involves a climb to a pre-specified altitude and holding point while awaiting further instructions from ATC.
• Gold Crown = Trade name owned by King Radio Corp
• GPADIRS = Global positioning, air data, inertial reference system
• GPS = Global positioning system
• GPWs = Ground Proximity Warning System
• Ground Effect - The increasing lift and decreasing drag resulting from the wings of the aircraft getting closer to the ground.
• Gross Weight - The total weight of an aircraft including people, cargo, fuel, etc.
• Ground Air = A/C unit to cool aircraft while on the ground
• Grounding = Putting an aircraft out of operation. This can happen for different reasons, but usually because it requires modifications or repairs in order to be fully compliant with airworthiness regulations. Good examples are the grounding of many aircraft in 2020 due to the pandemic, and the Boeing 737 MAX global grounding.
• GPWS = Ground Proximity Warning System - the system designed to alert pilots they are flying to close to the ground and they are in danger of crashing into it.
• GS = Groundspeed - the horizontal speed an aircraft measured when moving over the ground and in nautical miles per hour (Knots).
• G/S = Glide slope reciver and indicator
• GTWO = Gross Take off Weight

H

• Hand-off = Expression used to describe when ATC transfers radar identification of an aircraft to another controller.
• Handshake - The process of requesting log-on or the “ping” operation in aeronautical satellite communication (SATCOM) systems usually to begin communications is known as the handshake.
• Heavy = A term used by ATC to refer to aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 136 tonnes or more.
• HF = High Frequency radio equipment
• HF COM = High Frequency Communication
• Hangars = Facilities in an airfield designed to hold aircraft for different purposes such as storing, maintenance, or assembly.
• HIRF = High intensity radiated field
• Holding pattern - A flight pattern in the form of ovals although a circular orbit is sometimes used as a faster substitute.
• HP = Horsepower
• HPA = High-power amplifier
• HUD = Head-up display
• Hz or Hertz = Cycles per second, used to describe radio frequencies; usually with the prefix k for kilo (one thousand), M for mega (one million) or G for giga (one billion)

I

• IAC = Integrated avionics computer. Central processor of a Honeywell integrated cockpit system
• IAPS = Integrated avionics processing system. Central processor of a colins integrated cockpit system
• IAS = Indicated Airspeed - the air speed taken directly from the airspeed indicator without any corrections for temperature or pressure.
• IATA = International Air Transport Association - a trade organization composed by the airlines around the world which has an influence over the commercial aspects of flight.
• ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations that supports aviation and navigation around the globe.
• IAW = (logbook term – In Accordance With – and AD or SB)
• ICAO = International Civil Aviation Organization
• IMC = <p>IMC stands for Instrument Meterological Conditions, the weather conditions that describe a situation where pilots are required to operate with instruments only and following IFR.
• IFR = Instrument Flight Rules, the regulations for aircraft operations when using visual references is not possible for the pilots so they can fly by using instruments only. By following these rules, pilots can create IFR flight plans for various weather conditions.
• IFR = Instrument Flight Rules. An Instrument Rating is further training after a Pilot’s license to allow pilots to fly in bad weather. The pilot has been trained to not merely fly by instruments alone, but also to understand the Air Traffic Control system, because an IFR flight is continuously monitored by ATC, radar, flight following, and a dozen other agencies
• IFSD = Integrated Standby Flight Display, a flight instrument which is commonly found in modern airliners and serves as a backup for primary instruments such as the altimeter, airspeed and attitude indicators.
• ILS = Instrument Landing System, a system that uses radio waves to assist landings in IFR conditions.
• In-line engine = An engine in which the cylinders are mounted in a straight line or else in two, connected at an angle
• INS = Inertial Naviagation System
• INT = Interior
• ITC = Investment tax credit
• ITU = International Telephone Union, refers to certain HF channels
• IVSI = Instantaneous vertical speed indicator

J

• Jet = An aircraft with one or more jet engines as the propulsion power.
• Jet Prop = Describes aircraft using turbine engines to drive propellers
• Jetway = <p>Also known as an air bridge, a jetway is a movable and extendable structure that can be positioned to align with an aircraft door. It is normally used to connect the airport terminal with the aircraft, thus providing easy access to passengers and the cabin crew.
• Joystick = Also known as the control column, it is the main instrument to control an aircraft and is typically mounted on the ceiling or floor if the aircraft has a joystick instead of a yoke. Joysticks tend to be simpler to install since yokes are directly attached to the control surfaces like ailerons and flaps through cables and rods.

K

• KCAS = Knots Calibrated Airspeed - the airspeed measured in knots and corrected for instrument and position error.
• KIAS = Knots Indicated Airspeed - the airspeed of the aircraft in knots, read directly from the airspeed indicator without corrections.
• King = King Radio Corp. (Avionics manufacturer)
• Knot - A measurement of speed that equals one nautical mile. Therefore, 1 knot = 1 nautical mile per hour = 6076 feet per hour.
• Knots Calibrated Airspeed = Abbreviated KCAS, – the airspeed measured in knots and corrected for instrument and position error.
• KTAS = Knots True Airspeed - the speed of the aircraft in knots relative to the air mass in which it is flying.
• Known Icing = FAA certified for flight into icing conditions

L

• LTA=Lighter-than-air craft - also known as craft, it refers to other aerial objects like blimps, dirigibles, and free balloons that float.
• Laser IRS = An inertial reference system deriving angular rate information by measuring Doppler shift between two contra-rotating light beams

• Landing gear - the undercarriage of an aircraft, it is the structure with wheels that supports the plane when on the ground and is used during taxi, take-off, and landing.

• Lateral control = The ability to make an airplane roll, or turn around its long axis, according to its pilot’s wishes
• Level flight - The flight stage where the aircraft flies at the same altitude.
• L-band = A radio frequency between 890 and 1550 MHz
• LCD or LC = Liquid-crystal display
• Leading and trailing edges = The foremost and rearmost edges of a wing
• LED = Light-emitting diode
• Level flight - the flight stage where the aircraft flies at the same altitude.
• Lift - The aerodynamic force acting on an aircraft, opposite to its weight, and is mainly generated by the wings to overcome gravity so the aircraft can fly.
• LTA craft = Lighter-Than-Air craft - other aerial objects like blimps, dirigibles, and free balloons that float in the air.
• LMB = Light marker beacon
• LNAV = Lateral navigation guidance
• LOA = Letter Of Authorization
• LOC = Localizer receiver and indicator
• Longitudinal axis - An imaginary line that goes horizontally from the head to tail of an aircraft through its center of gravity – used for direction orientation.
• Looks per minute = Scanning or sweep rate of a wather radar antenna
• LOP = Line of position
• Loran-C = Hyperbolic grid navigation system based upon measured time differences (TD) from pulse transmissions
• LRT = Long range fuel tanks
• LRU = Line replaceable unit
• LYC = Avco-Lycoming (Engine manufacturer)

M

• Mach - The ratio of true airspeed to the speed of sound at the altitude of a given flight. The Mach ranges are Subsonic, Transonic, Supersonic, Hypersonic, High-hypersonic, and re-entry speeds. Until now, all commercial flights are subsonic.
• Magnetic Compass = The type of compass that provides the directional orientation of an aircraft according to the magnetic poles or the geomagnetic field.
• Magnetic Deviation = The error produced by the unavoidable magnetic impact of aircraft materials.
• Maneuvering speed = A speed calculated by the aircraft manufacturer provided to the user to prevent exceeding the maximum load factor for the airplane.
• Maximum Payload = Maximum Zero Fuel Weight – (minus) Basic Operating Weight
• MCAS = Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System - a flight control system found on the Boeing 737 MAX, introduced to the 737 MAX to modify the pitch behavior of the Boeing 737 NG, providing NG-rated pilots with flight characteristic familiarity.
• MCDU = Multifunction Control Display Unit - a screen and keypad typically found in Airbus aircraft which the crew uses as an interface with the aircraft FMS (Flight Management System).
• MCU =– Minimum configuration unit
• MDAU = Maintenance data acquisition unit
• MDH = Major damage history
• METAR - a specialized form of weather reporting used mainly in aviation. Standardized by ICAO, it follows a format specified by the regulator with the intention to make it easy to understand by any pilot around the world. It is delivered continuously and it represents the weather conditions at the moment rather than a forecast.
• MFD = Multifunction display. The third or fifth tube in an EFIS, it replaces the weather radar screen and displays radar data, navigation maps, checklists and other information
• Microline = Trade name owned by Collins
• MNPS = Minimum navigational performance specificaitons

• MLS = Microwave Landing System

• Mode-A = A transponder which does not give the controllers altitude information
• Mode-C = A transponder and encoding altimeter which give air traffic controllers altitude information

• Mode-S = A transponder which features unique identification per unit, the potential for low-speed up and down datalinks, and “selective interrogation” triggered by ground facilities. A protocol of communication that allows an aircraft to communicate with secondary surveillance radars (SSR) and other systems through the transponder that is on-board.

• MOH = Major overhaul
• MOPS = Minimum operational performance standard (RTCA)
• Mountainous Terrain Escape Routes - routes that allow a pilot to take an aircraft to an altitude below the Minimum Obstacle Clearance Altitude (MOCA) in case of emergency without any danger when flying over an area of high and mountainous terrain.
• MSL = Mean Sea Level - the average height of the surface of the sea, used in aviation to measure vertical altitude.
• MSN = Manufacturer’s serial number - a unique code assigned to an aircraft, often prior to building it. It is also used to identify the parts that will make the aircraft.
• MSP = Maintanance Servie Program. (Garret engine)

N

• N number - The registration number on a US-registered plane. The letter N is the letter internationally used to identify a US plane.
• NARA = NARA is a professional trade association of 54 reputable business companies organized to promote the growth and public understanding of the aircraft resale industry. Its members abide by a 12-point Code of Ethics that provides standards of business conduct regarding aircraft transactions
• NAT-OTS = North Atlantic Tracks (officially known as North Atlantic Organized Track System) - a specified set of routes that stretch Eastbound and Westbound across the North Atlantic. Aircraft require oceanic clearance to fly these routes, to provide safety by keeping aircraft separated and considering ideal weather conditions.
• Narrow-Body Aircraft - A small aircraft class that has a single-aisle inside and can carry 4 to 300 passengers.
• NAT = North Atlantic Tracks
• Nautical Mile = Measurment of distance. Equals 1.15 statute miles
• NAV = Navigation Receivers
• NAV/COM = Navigation and communication radios combined in a single unit
• NBAA IFR Fuel Reserves = Fuel for go-around at destination airport + climb to 500 ft. and hold for 5 minutes + fly to and land at alternate airport 200 NMi. away + fuel to hold at 5000 ft. for 30 minutes
• NDB = Non-Directional Beacon – an older type of electronic navigation aid, basically a low-power AM radio station
• NDH = No Damage History
• NMS = Navigation management system
• NMU = Navigation management unit
• NOTAM = Notice to Airmen - written notices issued by aviation authorities to alert pilots of hazards or other specific circumstances that may affect their safe navigation over a given area.
• NTSB = National Transportation Safety Board - the US government agency in charge of civilian transport accident investigations. While their main focus is on aviation incidents and accidents, they also investigate marine, highway, rail, and pipeline incidents and accidents. Plays an advisory role in flightworthiness accreditation
• NVM = Nonvolatile memory. Digital memory that retains information through system shutdown

O

• OAT = Outside Air Temperature - the temperature measured outside the aircraft.
• OBS = Omnibearing Selector – part of a VOR receiver system which allows the pilot to select a course to or from a VOR station
• OFUELWT = Zero Fuel Weight
• OH = Overhaul
• Omega = A very-low-frequency navigation system
• Operating Limitations - Limits for an aircraft to operate safely. These are provided by the manufacturer and generally include airspeed, weight, pressure, and passenger and crew size.
• Opitcal digitizer = Any device using a photosensor that can convert analog informatin to digital code
• Overshoot - An expression used when landing takes place beyond the runway.
• OXY = Oxygen system for passengers and crew

P

• Payload - The weight of what is carried by aircraft, including passengers, crew, cargo, etc.
• Payload with Full Fuel = Useful Load – (minus) Usable Fuel
• PBH = Power by the Hour. (Rolls Royce engines)
• PC = Positive Control. (Trade name for Mooney Aircrft wing leveler)
• PAR = Precision Approach Radar – a ground-radar based instrument approach which provides both horizontal and vertical guidance
• Peak power output = The maximum transitter power output measured over a short time; usually used to rate pulse transmissions
• PEP = Peak Envelope Power - a standard electronic rating of any AC source, including a radio transmitter
• PFD = Primary Flight Display - the main screen used by pilots in aircraft containing an electronic flight instrument system, usually to read data relating to airspeed, altitude, heading, and vertical speed.
• PIC = Pilot in Command - the individual responsible for safe aircraft operations during flight.
• PIREP = Pilot Report - a report a pilot gives to ATC describing actual weather conditions during a flight.
• Pitch - The movement of an aircraft, that sees the nose rising and the tail falling or vice versa.
• PNT = Paint
• POH = Pilot’s Operating Handbook - an aircraft flight manual containing pertinent safety information.
• port = Nautical usage adopted in aviation. The left side, as determined by an observer in the vehicle, when vehicle and observer are right side up, and observer is looking “forward” (in the normal direction of travel of the vessel or vehicle)
• PPL = Private Pilot License
• Primary radar outputs a radio signal and attempts to detect any reflection of that signal from an object, such as an airplane. It is common to avoid the word primary and just say radar when speaking about it.
• PSI = Pounds per square inch
• PTT = Push-to-talk (switch)
• Pulse = A transmission of very brief duration used to carry information by using time measurement or as a series of pulses representing code
• PVT = Private (pilot certificate)
• PW = Pratt & Whitney, the world’s leading designer, developer and manufacturer of gas turbine engines for commercial, military and general aviation aircraft.”

Q

• QAR = Quick Access Recorder - an airborne flight recorder that provides quick and easy access to raw flight data through a USB or cellular network.
• QFE - an aeronautical “Q code” which provides a barometric altimeter setting that causes an altimeter to read zero when at the reference datum point of an airfield.
• QNH - an aeronautical “Q code” which provides a barometric altimeter setting relating to airfield elevation above mean sea level. Standard QNH which is used when flying at Flight Levels is set to 1013.25hPa / 29.92inHg.
• Quadraplane - An aircraft type that has four wings with the same span.

R

• RA = (1) Radio altitiude; (2) Resolution advisory (TCAS)
• radal = Radio Altimeter
• Radar = On-board weather radar
• Radar Altimeter = Device that senses aircraft’s height above the terrain. Different from normal (barometric) altimeter
• Radome = A detachable nose cone made of plastic-type material, used to cover and protect an airplane’s radar antenna
• RAIM = Receiver autonomous integrity monitoring (GPS)
• RAM = Random access memory
• Ramjet = A type of jet engine with very few moving parts which consists of a specially shaped tube open at both ends
• Rate of roll = A measure of the speed with which an airplane can turn around its long axis, or roll
• RCA = Avionics manufacturer
• RCU = Radio control unit
• Registration Tail Number - The unique number of each aircraft assigned upon registration and frequently called the tail number. The N number is the registration or tail number in the United States.
• Repositioning flight - occurs when an aircraft is out of place, either due to previous diversion or operational requirements.
• RESA - Runway End Safety Area - an area located beyond the runway which is designated as a place for aircraft to enter in an attempt to minimize risk during unplanned occurrences, such as an overshoot.
• Reversers = System for braking aircraft during landing roll
• RFU = Radio frequency unit
• RG = Retractable landing gear
• RMI = radio magnetic indicator – an ADF-like display with a pair of pointers which might be attached to either VOR or ADF receivers
• RNAV = Area Navigation - a device and method of IFR navigation where a network of radio beacons is provided for the aircraft to take the course instead of navigating from and to beacons directly.
• Roll - The movement of an aircraft rotating along the longitudinal axis, which runs from the nose to the tail.
• RNP = Required navigation performance
• ROM = Read-only memory
• RR = Rolls Royce makes engines for a variety of aircraft, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus 330
• RT = Receiver-transmitter combined in a singel line-replacable unit
• RTCA, Inc. = An association of U.S. governmental and industry aeronautical organizations dedicated to advancing aeronautics through consensus and recommendations
• Runway XX = Runways are numbered after magnetic compass points, minus the 1’s column (where North is 0, and 360, degrees)
• Rudder - A control surface used to achieve the yaw movement properly.
• RVR - Runway Visual Range - the horizontal distance that pilots can read by seeing surface markings or runway lights when positioned on the centerline of a runway.
• RVSM = Reduced Vertical Seperatation Minimum

S

• SAR = Search and rescue
• SB = Service Bulletin
• SL = Service Letter
• Satcom = Satellite communications system
• SDU = Satellite data unit
• Secondary radar or secondary surveillance radar - sends out a signal to compatible aircraft, which then return a signal of their own with information about a flight, such as speed, altitude, heading, and registration.
• SELCAL = Selective Calling system (used primarily with HF)
• Service ceiling = The altitude above sea level beyond which an airplane can no longer climb more than 30 m(100 ft) per minute
• Servo Tab = moves control surface using aerodynamic force
• Servo = device that moves an actuator
• Short Field - a runway that is shorter than usual and requires aircraft to minimize the amount of runway used when taking off or landing, thus posing a challenge for inexperienced pilots.
• SHP = Shaft horsepower. (refers to turbine engines.)
• SIC = Second in command - the designated individual to take over flight operations in case the PIC is not able to keep in operation.
• SID = Standard Instrument Departure route - a published instrument flight rule (IFR) routing that pilots use directly after takeoff.
• Sideslip - aircraft movement that typically aligns with the lateral force of the wind and results in a sideways flow.
• Silver Crown = Trade name owned by King Radio
• Simplex = Single frequency for both transmitting and recieving in communications; generally implies a push-to-talk function and verbal procedures
• Skid - The sliding and outward pivoting movement of the aircraft that occurs as a result of a shallow turn.
• Slaved compass = North-seeking gyro-stabilized compass system. Technically superior to DG.
• Slip = The sliding and inward pivoting movement of the aircraft that occurs as a result of a steep turn. A way to lose altitude in a hurry (on purpose), or slide into a final approach during a heavy wind. The technique is to put nearly full rudder in one direction, and then bank in the opposite. This keeps the plane almost level while pointing to one side.
• Slot - A period of 15 minutes which is provided by ATC in order to limit the amount of aircraft using a certain airspace.
• SMOH = Since major overhaul
• SMPI = Time Since Major Periodic Inspection
• SN = Serial Number
• Soft Field - An unpaved runway, typically requiring the aircraft to land on grass or dirt.
• Spar = A principal section of the wing structure of an airplane, going from tip to tip
• Sperry = Avionics manufacturer
• SPOH = Since prop overhaul
• Squawk - A unique four-digit (actually 4-octal-digit -> 12-bit) transponder number given to an aircraft by ATC to allow for simple identification of an aircraft in a given region. There are a few significant squawk codes, which immediately get the attention of air traffic control. These are 7500: Hijack; 7600: Radio Failure; 7700: General Emergency.
• Squitter = The transmission of a specified reply format at a minimum rate without the need to be interrogated (transponders)
• SSB = Single sideband. A highly efficient form of radio transmission wherein information is carried on a sideband instead of the center carrier in order to gain range performance; usually used in HF communication transceivers
• SSCVR = Solid state cockpit voice recorder
• Standard Rate Turn - A turn that an aircraft makes at a rate of 3°/second or a 360° turn in two minutes.
• Stall = The point at which wings fail to generate enough lift to keep the plane stable. The condition affecting an aircraft when the angle of attack exceeds the aircraft limits so the air no longer flows easily over the airfoil, thus resulting in reduced lift.
• STAR = Standard arrival route - a published instrument flight rule (IFR) routing that pilots use prior to transitioning to their chosen approach and landing profile.
• Starboard = Nautical usage adopted in aviation. The right side, as determined by an observer in the vehicle, when vehicle and observer are right side up, and observer is looking “forward” (in the normal direction of travel of the vessel or vehicle)
• STC = (1) Supplemental Type Certificate. (2) Sensitivity-time compensation. In weather radar, a technique and circuit for calibrating a display
• STOL = Short takeoff and landing ability
• Straight-and-Level Flight = Flying at a consistent heading and altitude.
• sumps = Points underneath each fuel tank to test for contamination like water or other debris
• Supercharged = Method for increasing engine power
• Synchro = Any device capable of converting mechanical position into an analog electronic signal
• Synthesizer = Frequency synthesizer, an electronic circuit capable of generating multiple frequencies from a single crystal oscillator
• Swept-wing = A wing in which both the leading and trailing edges are slanted backward, to reduce air resistance at high speed
• Synch = Engine Fan Synchronizer

T

• TA = Traffic advisory (TCAS)
• TACAN = Tactical Air Navigation System - a UHF navigation system that provides aircraft with a distance and bearing.
• TAF = Terminal Area Forecasts are similar in format to METARs, but issued for future periods, hence the word forecasts in its name.
• Tarmac - Another name for the apron, the paved area at an airport where aircraft park, fuel, load, and unload.
• TBO = Time between overhaul
• TCAS = Traffic Collison Avoidance System - a system to prevent a mid-air collisions. It allows aircraft to communicate if equipped with a compatible transponder. TCAS-I provides warnings (TAs) of other nearby aircraft; TCAS II provides warnings and resolutions advisories (RAs), and coordinates RAs with other TCAS II equipped aircraft via Mode S transponder
• TCDS = Type Certificate Data Sheet
• Threshold - The area of a runway that indicates the beginning of it with specific marking.
• Throttle - A device that controls the amount of power coming from the engine.
• Thrust - A force generated by the aircraft engines to oppose drag in order to move forward.
• TKE = Track error
• Touch-and-Go - A maneuver used to practice landing techniques by simply “touching” the runway and lifting the aircraft once more without coming to a full stop.
• Transponder - The device carried in an airplane and used to generate a code that is recognized on an ATC radar screen.
• T/Rs = Thrust Reversers
• Track - the compass direction of the aircraft, denoted as 1-360. It represents the actual path or vector.
• Trend Monitoring = Continuous computerized observation of turbine engine performance. Used to detect early sings of wear
• Trim Tab = holds control surface at desired deflection
• True Altitude - The vertical height of an aircraft above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
• TSC = Total Time Since CORE
• TSN = Time Since New (also TTSN)
• TSO = Technical standard order. A performance specification and production compliance criteria applied to avionics and defined by FARs and the RTCA
• TT = Total Time
• TTAF = Total Time Airframe
• TTE = Total Time Engine
• TTG, TTS or TTW = Time to go, time to station, time to waypoint
• Turbo prop = Is said of an airplane powered by a type of jet engine, the turbo prop, equipped with a turbine-driven propeller
• Turbulence mode = Flight control system mode in which a “softer” response to gust upsets is programmed
• TWR = tower.
• TWY = taxiway.
• TX = Transponder

U

• UIR = Upper Information Region - geographic areas under the responsibility of ATC. The size of these two areas is variable and its size depends on the country’s decision or the agreement of all the countries that the region covers. Oceanic airspace has its own classification as an Oceanic Information Region.
• Undercarriage strut = A part of an airplane’s structure, designed to resist distortion, which supports the landing gear
• Upwind Leg - the flight path in an airport pattern that runs parallel to the runway in the same direction as the landing.
• Usable Fuel (lbs) = Usable fuel (gallons) x 6.7 lbs/gallon
• Useful Load - The weight of the contains that can be taken out of the aircraft such as fuel, passengers, cargo, pilots, etc. calculated by the Maximum Ramp Weight – (minus) Basic Operating Weight.
• UTC = Coordinated Universal Time = the standard time zone used in aviation. It is the same as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and is regularly used in offsets such as UTC-1 and UTC+1.

V

• VAC = Volts alternating current
• VDC = Volts direct current
• Vertical Speed - the rate at which a plane is ascending or descending.
• VFR = Visual Flight Rules - regulations that define aircraft operations when pilots are able to operate using visual references, or the opposite of IFR. Private Pilots start as VFR certified. This means that, in most cases,they must have about 3 miles of visibility, be 500 feet below clouds, 1000 feet above clouds, and/or 2000 feet next to clouds at a bare minimum. Unless they have an IFR (Instrument Flight Rating) and all the associated control along with that), they are required to avoid all clouds and weather.
• VHF = Very High Frequency radio equipment
• VLF = Very Low Frequency
• VMC = Visual Meteorological Conditions - the minimum requirements for VFR flight to be possible before turning to IFR.
• VNAV = Vertical navigation, or the capability to compute pitch-axis maneuvers and altitude-related points in space
• VOR = Very High-Frequency Omni-Directional Range - a short-range radio navigation beacon. A network of VORs can be used by pilots to determine their position and course. One of the more common navigational aids that the FAA has dropped all over the country (and sometimes the world). A VOR sends out a radio signal that is slightly different in each direction (the difference is phases, if you want to get technical). So, an airplane’s VOR tool listens to the VOR, and by measuring the difference in the radio, it can tell which direction it is from the VOR. Since your chart will show where the VOR is, and you now know where you are in relation to the VOR, it has helped you figure out where in the local area you might happen to be.
• VSI = Vertical Speed Indicator - an instrument that displays the climb or descent rate in feet-per-minute by sensing the change in atmospheric pressure. It is also known as a variometer.

W

• WAAS = GNSS wide-area Augmentation System
• Weight-Shift-Control - A steering method used by pilots in a hang glider or paraglider where the pilots use their weight to steer the craft, pushing against a triangular control bar that’s attached to the wing structure.
• Wet wings = Method for containing fuel in wings without using rubber fuel cells
• Wide-Body Aircraft - An aircraft with two aisles inside. The typical fuselage diameter is 16 to 20 feet.
• Wind Shear - An abrupt change in horizontal or vertical wind direction.
• Wing fence = a term preferred by Airbus and McDonnell-Douglas aircraft manufacturers for the vertical structures at the outside ends of the wings of some of their jets.
• Winglet = Term preferred by Boeing for the vertical structures at the ends of the wings on their 747-400. Airbus and McDonnell-Douglas aircraft manufacturers use the term “wing fence.” The 747-400 winglets only rise from the end of the wing. MD-11 and Airbus wing fences extend both above and below the wing
• WPT = Waypoint = a specific location on a map
• Wx = abbreviation for weather.

X

• XC = abbreviation for cross-country, as in Cross-Country Flight - a kind of flight that requires a special flight plan. The FAA requires this type of flight to be completed in order to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL).
• Xpond = Transponder
• X-band = Frequency range in which most general aviation weather radars operate
• XTK = Cross track; cross track error

Y

• Yaw - The movement of an aircraft around the vertical axis, characterized by the nose moving side-to-side.
• Yoke - The input device a pilot uses to control the pitch and roll of an aircraft which is similar to a car steering wheel.

Z

• Zulu Time - a term for Universal Coordinated Time (abbreviated as UTC as a “politically correct” term for Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)). Pilots file all flight plans in Zulu Time.

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Airplanes

VIDEO: Boeing vs Airbus by Captain JK.

• Toggle switch positions are opposite: Up is ON on Airbus.
• Control yoke on Boeing vs sidestick on Airbus.
• Airbus has room for a tray table in place of a yoke
  
  

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