2 High-intensity flasher system installed at many large airports. The flashers consist of a series of brilliant blue-white bursts of light flashing in sequence along the approach lights, giving the effect of a ball of light traveling toward the runway.
5 High-intensity flasher system installed at many large airports. The flashers consist of a series of brilliant blue-white bursts of light flashing in sequence along the approach lights, giving the effect of a ball of light traveling towards the runway.
2 A system that uses electromagnetic waves to identify the range, altitude, direction, or speed of both moving and fixed objects such as aircraft, weather formations, and terrain. The term RADAR was coined in 1941 as an acronym for Radio Detection and
5 Radio Detection And Ranging.
2 The controller provides vectors while monitoring the progress of the flight with radar, guiding the pilot through the descent to the airport/heliport or to a specific runway.
5 The controller provides vectors while monitoring the progress of the flight with radar, guiding the pilot through the descent to the airport/heliport or to a specific runway.
2 Radar is a method whereby radio waves are transmitted into the air and are then received when they have been reflected by an object in the path of the beam. Range is determined by measuring the time it takes (at the speed of light) for the radio wave
2 A weather product derived from the national radar network that graphically displays a summary of radar weather reports.
2 A report issued by radar stations at 35 minutes after the hour, and special reports as needed. Provides information on the type, intensity, and location of the echo tops of the precipitation.
2 The courses oriented from a station.
5 The courses oriented from a station.
12 Energy due to any form of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., from the sun).
2 An electronic altimeter that determines the height of an aircraft above the terrain by measuring the time needed for a pulse of radio-frequency energy to travel from the aircraft to the ground and return.
5 An electronic altimeter that determines the height of an aircraft above the terrain by measuring the time needed for a pulse of radio-frequency energy to travel from the aircraft to the ground and return.
2 A term that refers to alternating current (AC) having characteristics such that, if the current is input to antenna, an electromagnetic (EM) field is generated suitable for wireless broadcasting and/or communications.
5 A term that refers to alternating current (AC) having characteristics such that, if the current is input to antenna, an electromagnetic (EM) field is generated suitable for wireless broadcasting and/or communications.
2 An electronic navigation instrument that combines a magnetic compass with an ADF or VOR. The card of the RMI acts as a gyro-stabilized magnetic compass, and shows the magnetic heading the aircraft is flying.
5 An electronic navigation instrument that combines a magnetic compass card with two bearing pointers (typically). Generally, one pointer is for the ADF while the other is for an RNAV or VOR navigation system. The pointers are typically different colors and of different widths for ease of identification. Sometimes a function switch is provided to allow the #2 pointer to be slaved to either a VOR or RNAV system. The card of the RMI acts as a gyro-stabilized magnetic compass (usually corrected for n
2 A weather instrument that observes and reports meteorological conditions from the upper atmosphere. This instrument is typically carried into the atmosphere by some form of weather balloon.
5 An electromagnetic wave (EM wave) with frequency characteristics useful for radio transmission.
2 An electromagnetic (EM) wave with frequency characteristics useful for radio transmission.
12 The horizontal distance an aircraft uses to complete a turn.
2 See receiver autonomous integrity monitoring.
5 See receiver autonomous integrity monitoring.
1 The total weight of the aircraft while on the ramp. It differs from takeoff weight by the weight of the fuel that will be consumed in taxiing to the point of takeoff.
2 The increase in thrust as a result of ram air pressures and density on the front of the engine caused by air velocity.
2 Direct routes, based on area navigation capability, between waypoints defined in terms of latitude/longitude coordinates, degree-distance fixes, or offsets from established routes/airways at a specified distance and direction.
5 Direct routes, based on area navigation capability, between waypoints defined in terms of latitude/longitude coordinates, degree-distance fixes, or offsets from established routes/airways at a specified distance and direction.
2 Transmitted from the GPS satellite, signals allowing the aircraft’s receiver to determine range (distance) from each satellite.
5 Transmitted from the GPS satellite, these allow the aircraft’s receiver to determine range (distance) from each satellite.
2 The almost instantaneous loss of cabin pressure in aircraft with a pressurized cockpit or cabin.
1 The rate in degrees/second of a turn.
12 The amount of time it takes for a glider to turn a specified number of degrees.
2 See relative bearing.
5 See relative bearing.
2 See relative bearing indicator.
5 See relative bearing indicator.
2 See remote communications outlet.
5 See remote communications outlet.
7 A principle of learning where the eagerness and single-mindedness of a person toward learning affect the outcome of the learning experience.
7 In communication, the listener, reader, or learner who takes in a message containing information from a source, processes it, reacts with understanding, and changes behavior in accordance with the message.
2 A system used to verify the usability of the received GPS signals and warns the pilot of any malfunction in the navigation system. This system is required for IFR-certified GPS units.
5 A system used to verify the usability of the received GPS signals and warns the pilot of any malfunction in the navigation system. This system is required for IFR-certified GPS units.
7 Principle of learning stating that things learned recently are remembered better than things learned some time ago. As time passes, less is remembered. Instructors use this principle when summarizing the important points at the end of a lecture in order for learners to better remember them.
1 An engine that converts the heat energy from burning fuel into the reciprocating movement of the pistons. This movement is converted into a rotary motion by the connecting rods and crankshaft.
4 See Database Record.
2 An altitude depicted on an instrument approach chart with the altitude value neither underscored nor overscored. The depicted value is an advisory value.
5 An altitude depicted on an instrument approach chart with the altitude value neither underscored nor overscored. The depicted value is an advisory value.
2 A system that receives and transmits a signal and an indicator.
5 A system that permits selection of a unique channel or frequency whereupon a signal (typically communication) can be transmitted and received.
2 Reduces the vertical separation between flight levels (FL) 290 and 410 from 2,000 feet to 1,000 feet, and makes six additional FLs available for operation. Also see DRVSM.
4 RVSM airspace is where air traffic control separates aircraft by a minimum of 1,000 feet vertically between flight level (FL) 290 and FL 410 inclusive. RVSM airspace is special qualification airspace; the operator and the aircraft used by the operator must be approved by the Administrator. Air traffic control notifies operators of RVSM by providing route planing information.
5 Reduces the vertical separation between flight level (FL) 290–410 from 2,000 feet to 1,000 feet and makes six additional FLs available for operation. Also see DRVSM.
1 The gear arrangement in an aircraft engine that allows the engine to turn at a faster speed than the propeller.
2 The circle depicted in the plan view of an IAP chart that typically has a 10 NM radius, within which chart the elements are drawn to scale.
5 The circle depicted in the plan view of an IAP chart that typically has a 10 NM radius, within which chart the elements are drawn to scale.
2 The “regions of normal and reversed command” refers to the relationship between speed and the power required to maintain or change that speed in flight.
5 The “regions of normal and reversed command” refers to the relationship between speed and the power required to maintain or change that speed in flight.
1 Flight regime in which flight at a higher airspeed requires a lower power setting and a lower airspeed requires a higher power setting in order to maintain altitude.
2 Flight regime in which flight at a higher airspeed requires a lower power setting and a lower airspeed requires a higher power setting in order to maintain altitude.
1 A State and Federal certificate that documents aircraft ownership.
2 See runway end identifier lights.
5 See runway end identifier lights.
2 The angular difference between the aircraft heading and the direction to the station, measured clockwise from the nose of the aircraft.
5 The angular difference between the aircraft heading and the direction to the station, measured clockwise from the nose of the aircraft.
2 Also known as the fixed- card ADF, zero is always indicated at the top of the instrument and the needle indicates the relative bearing to the station.
5 Also known as the fixed- card ADF, zero is always indicated at the top of the instrument and the needle indicates the relative bearing to the station.
2 The ratio of the existing amount of water vapor in the air at a given temperature to the maximum amount that could exist at that temperature; usually expressed in percent.
1 The direction of the airflow with respect to the wing. If a wing moves forward horizontally, the relative wind moves backward horizontally. Relative wind is parallel to and opposite the flightpath of the airplane.
2 Direction of the airflow produced by an object moving through the air. The relative wind for an airplane in flight flows in a direction parallel with and opposite to the direction of flight; therefore, the actual flight path of the airplane determine
5 Direction of the airflow produced by an object moving through the air. The relative wind for an airplane in flight flows in a direction parallel with and opposite to the direction of flight; therefore, the actual flight path of the airplane determines the direction of the relative wind.
12 The airflow caused by the motion of the aircraft through the air. Relative wind, also called relative airflow, is opposite and parallel to the direction of flight.
7 Used in response to a learner’s question, the question is redirected to another individual.
7 The degree to which test results are consistent with repeated measurements.
2 An unmanned communications facility that is remotely controlled by air traffic personnel.
4 An unmanned communications facility remotely controlled by air traffic personnel. RCOs serve FSSs and may be UHF or VHF. RCOs extend the communication range of the air traffic facility. RCOs were established to provide ground-to-ground communications between air traffic control specialists and pilots located at a satellite airport for delivering en route clearances, issuing departure authorizations, and acknowledging IFR cancellations or departure/landing times.
5 An unmanned communications facility that is remotely controlled by air traffic personnel.
4 A geographical location in relation to which the position of an aircraft is reported. (See Compulsory Reporting Points).
7 Theory of forgetting proposing that a person is more likely to forget information which is unpleasant or produces anxiety.
2 A specified level of accuracy defined by a lateral area of confined airspace in which an RNP-certified aircraft operates.
4 RNP is a statement of the navigation performance necessary for operation within a defined airspace. On-board monitoring and alerting is required.
5 A specified level of accuracy defined by a lateral area of confined airspace in which an RNP-certified aircraft operates.
2 Airspace designated under 14 CFR part 73 within which the flight of aircraft, while not wholly prohibited, is subject to restriction.
5 Airspace designated under 14 CFR part 73 within which the flight of aircraft, while not wholly prohibited, is subject to restriction.
7 Possible answer to a multiple choice test item. The correct response is often called the keyed response, and incorrect responses are called distractors.
2 The VOR needle appearing to indicate the reverse of normal operation.
5 The VOR needle appearing to indicate the reverse of normal operation.
7 Used in response to a learner’s question. Rather than give a direct answer to the learner’s query, the instructor returns the question to the same individual to provide the answer.
1 A condition where jet thrust is directed forward during landing to increase the rate of deceleration.
1 A propeller system with a pitch change mechanism that includes full reversing capability. When the pilot moves the throttle controls to reverse, the blade angle changes to a pitch angle and produces a reverse thrust, which slows the airplane down dur
7 The fourth and last step in the teaching process, which consists of a review of all material and an evaluation of the learners. In the telling-and-doing technique of flight instruction, this step consists of the instructor evaluating the performance while the learner performs the required procedure.
2 Radio frequency.
5 Radio frequency.
7 Generally, a question asked for a purpose other than to obtain the information the question asks. For this handbook’s purpose, a question asked to stimulate group thought. Normally answered by the instructor, it is more commonly used in lecturing rather than in guided discussions.
2 The photosensitive pigments that initiate the visual response in the rods of the eye.
5 The photosensitive pigments that initiate the visual response in the rods of the eye.
2 The final adjustment and alignment of an aircraft and its flight control system that provides the proper aerodynamic characteristics.
2 The characteristic of a gyroscope that prevents its axis of rotation tilting as the Earth rotates.
5 The characteristic of a gyroscope that prevents its axis of rotation tilting as the Earth rotates.
2 The principle that a wheel with a heavily weighted rim spinning rapidly will remain in a fixed position in the plane in which it is spinning.
2 Rough, milky, opaque ice formed by the instantaneous freezing of small supercooled water droplets.
5 Rough, milky, opaque ice formed by the instantaneous freezing of small supercooled water droplets.
2 The future impact of a hazard that is not eliminated or controlled.
5 The future impact of a hazard that is not eliminated or controlled.
2 There are four fundamental risk elements in aviation: the pilot, the aircraft, the environment, and the type of operation that comprise any given aviation situation.
7 Take into consideration the four fundamental risk elements: the pilot, the aircraft, the environment, and external pressures.
2 The part of the decision-making process which relies on situational awareness, problem recognition, and good judgment to reduce risks associated with each flight.
7 The part of the decision-making process which relies on situational awareness, problem recognition, and good judgment to reduce risks associated with each flight.
2 See radio magnetic indicator.
5 See radio magnetic indicator.
2 See area navigation.
5 See area navigation.
4 A Departure Procedure developed for RNAV- equipped aircraft whose ground track is based on satellite or DME/DME navigation systems.
2 See required navigation performance.
5 See required navigation performance.
1 The motion of the aircraft about the longitudinal axis. It is controlled by the ailerons.
4 The RVR readout values obtained from sensors located nearest the rollout end of the runway.
7 A basic level of learning in which the learner has the ability to repeat back something learned, with no understanding or ability to apply what was learned.
12 A turbulent circulation under mountain-wave crests, to the lee side and parallel to the mountains creating the wave. Glider pilots use the term rotor to describe any low-level turbulent flow associated with mountain waves.
12 A phenomenon that occurs when the air flow at mountain levels may be sufficient for wave formation, but begins to decrease with altitude above the mountain. In this case, the air downstream of the mountain breaks up and becomes turbulent, similar to rotor, with no lee waves above.
1 A pitch-up during landing approach to reduce rate of descent and forward speed prior to touchdown.
2 See receiver-transmitter.
1 The movable primary control surface mounted on the trailing edge of the vertical fin of an airplane. Movement of the rudder rotates the airplane about its vertical axis.
2 The movable primary control surface mounted on the trailing edge of the vertical fin of an airplane. Movement of the rudder rotates the airplane about its vertical axis.
12 Attached to the back of the vertical stabilizer, the rudder controls movement about the vertical axis.
1 A pair of control surfaces on the tail of an aircraft arranged in the form of a V. These surfaces, when moved together by the control wheel, serve as elevators, and when moved differentially by the rudder pedals, serve as a rudder.
2 A pair of control surfaces on the tail of an aircraft arranged in the form of a V. These surfaces, when moved together by the control wheel, serve as elevators, and when moved differentially by the rudder pedals, serve as a rudder.
1 Runway centerline lights are installed on some precision approach runways to facilitate landing under adverse visibility conditions. They are located along the runway centerline and are spaced at 50-foot intervals. When viewed from the landing thresh
2 Runway lighting which consists of flush centerline lights spaced at 50-foot intervals beginning 75 feet from the landing threshold.
1 The runway centerline identifies the center of the runway and provides alignment guidance during takeoff and landings. The centerline consists of a line of uniformly spaced stripes and gaps.
1 Runway edge lights are used to outline the edges of runways during periods of darkness or restricted visibility conditions. These light systems are classified according to the intensity or brightness they are capable of producing: they are the High I
2 A component of the runway lighting system that is used to outline the edges of runways at night or during low visibility conditions. These lights are classified according to the intensity they are capable of producing.
1 One component of the runway lighting system. These lights are installed at many airfields to provide rapid and positive identification of the approach end of a particular runway.
2 A pair of synchronized flashing lights, located laterally on each side of the runway threshold, providing rapid and positive identification of the approach end of a runway.
5 A pair of synchronized flashing lights, located laterally on each side of the runway threshold, providing rapid and positive identification of the approach end of a runway.
4 The magnetic direction that corresponds with the runway centerline extended, not the painted runway numbers on the runway. Pilots cleared to “fly or maintain runway heading” are expected to fly or maintain the published heading that corresponds with the extended centerline of the departure runway (until otherwise instructed by ATC), and are not to apply drift correction (e.g., RWY 4, actual magnetic heading of the runway centerline 044.22°, fly 044°).
4 Locations on a particular airport that historically have hazardous intersections. Hot spots alert pilots to the fact that there may be a lack of visibility at certain points or the tower may be unable to see that particular intersection. Whatever the reason, pilots need to be aware that these hazardous intersections exist and they should be increasingly vigilant when approaching and taxiing through these intersections. Pilots are typically notified of these areas by a Letter to Airmen or by acce
1 Any occurrence at an airport involving an aircraft, vehicle, person, or object on the ground that creates a collision hazard or results in loss of separation with an aircraft taking off, intending to takeoff, landing, or intending to land.
4 An occurrence at an airport involving an aircraft, vehicle, person, or object on the ground that creates a collision hazard or results in a loss of separation with an aircraft that is taking off, intending to take off, landing, or intending to land.
4 Designed to create and execute a plan of action that reduces the number of runway incursions at the nation’s airports.
1 Runway threshold markings come in two configurations. They either consist of eight longitudinal stripes of uniform dimensions disposed symmetrically about the runway centerline, or the number of stripes is related to the runway width. A threshold mar
2 The visibility determined for a particular runway by a transmissometer.
5 The visibility determined for a particular runway by a transmissometer.
2 The instrumentally derived horizontal distance a pilot should be able to see down the runway from the approach end, based on either the sighting of high-intensity runway lights, or the visual contrast of other objects.
4 An estimate of the maximum distance at which the runway, or the specified lights or markers delineating it, can be seen from a position above a specific point on the runway centerline. RVR is normally determined by visibility sensors or transmissometers located alongside and higher than the centerline of the runway. RVR is reported in hundreds of feet.
5 The instrumentally derived horizontal distance a pilot should be able to see down the runway from the approach end, based on either the sighting of high-intensity runway lights, or the visual contrast of other objects.
2 See runway visual range.
5 See runway visual range.
2 See runway visibility value.
4 The visibility determined for a particular runway by a transmissometer. A meter provides a continuous indication of the visibility (reported in miles or fractions of miles) for the runway. RVV is used in lieu of prevailing visibility in determining minimums for a particular runway.
5 See runway visibility value.