FRAT, TBO, AFSP, IPC, BFR — every aviation acronym worth knowing, in plain language with real operational context.
Airman Certification Standards
FAA document specifying knowledge, risk management, and skill standards for each pilot certificate practical test.
Flight Review (formerly Biennial Flight Review)
A flight review required every 24 calendar months for a pilot to act as PIC.
Designated Pilot Examiner
An FAA-designated examiner authorized to conduct practical tests for pilot certificates and ratings.
Instrument Proficiency Check
A flight check that restores instrument currency for a pilot whose 6-month instrument experience has lapsed.
Emergency Locator Transmitter
A self-activating radio beacon that transmits a distress signal when an aircraft impacts.
Minimum Equipment List
A document authorizing an aircraft to be dispatched with specific equipment inoperative under defined conditions.
Time Between Overhauls
The recommended engine operating hours between major overhauls, set by the engine manufacturer.
Hobbs Time / Hobbs Meter
Real elapsed time recorded whenever the master switch (or oil pressure) is on.
Instrument Meteorological Conditions
Weather conditions below VFR minimums where flight requires instrument reference.
Notice to Air Missions
A notice containing information essential for safe flight operations at a specific airport, area, or system.
Pilot in Command
The pilot legally responsible for the operation and safety of the aircraft during flight.
Tachometer Time
Time measured by engine RPM — advances at 1.0/hr only at the engine's calibration RPM.
Visual Meteorological Conditions / Minimum Control Speed
Two meanings: visual weather conditions (VFR), or the minimum control speed with one engine inoperative.
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