Aviation terms, explained

Flight Risk Assessment Tool

A pre-flight risk-scoring tool used to identify and mitigate hazards before takeoff.

Airworthiness Directive

A legally binding FAA notice requiring inspection, repair, or modification to maintain airworthiness.

Alien Flight Student Program

TSA program requiring non-U.S. citizens to receive security threat assessment approval before flight training.

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.

Meteorological Aerodrome Report

A standardized hourly weather observation report from an airport.

Terminal Aerodrome Forecast

A weather forecast for a specific airport, valid for typically 24 or 30 hours.

Pilot's Operating Handbook

The manufacturer-provided handbook for operating a specific aircraft.