Aircraft

Aircraft

Any machine or device that is capable of atmospheric flight either by buoyancy or by the movement of air over its surfaces.

Industry: Aviation

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Aircraft

outside air temperature (OAT)

Aviation; Aircraft

The measured or indicated air temperature (IAT) corrected for compression and friction heating. Also referred to as true air temperature.

wingtip vortices

Aviation; Aircraft

The rapidly rotating air that spills over an airplane’s wings during flight. The intensity of the turbulence depends on the airplane’s weight, speed, and configuration. Also referred to as wake ...

autokinesis

Aviation; Aircraft

Nighttime visual illusion that a stationary light is moving, which becomes apparent after several seconds of staring at the light.

lines of flux

Aviation; Aircraft

Invisible lines of magnetic force passing between the poles of a magnet.

terminal aerodrome forecast (TAF)

Aviation; Aircraft

A report established for the 5 statute mile radius around an airport. Utilizes the same descriptors and abbreviations as the METAR report.

decision altitude (DA)

Aviation; Aircraft

A specified altitude in the precision approach, charted in feet MSL, at which a missed approach must be initiated if the required visual reference to continue the approach has not been established.

overboost

Aviation; Aircraft

A condition in which a reciprocating engine has exceeded the maximum manifold pressure allowed by the manufacturer. Can cause damage to engine components.