Aviation Glossary
The essential terms every pilot needs to know
Aviation has its own language. Whether you are just starting ground school or preparing for a checkride, understanding these terms will help you communicate clearly, study more effectively, and fly with confidence. This glossary covers 97+ terms used in pilot training and everyday flying.
1
- 100-Hour Inspection
- An FAA-required inspection for aircraft used to carry persons for hire or to give flight instruction for hire. Under 14 CFR 91.409(b), the inspection must be completed within the preceding 100 hours of time in service. An annual inspection also satisfies the 100-hour requirement, but a 100-hour does not satisfy the annual.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
A
- Abbreviated Briefing
- A Flight Service weather briefing used to update a previous briefing or to request specific missing information. The pilot tells the briefer when and where the earlier briefing was received so only changes and gaps are covered.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ACS (Airman Certification Standards)
- The FAA's standards that define the knowledge, risk management, and skill requirements for each pilot certificate or rating. The ACS replaced the older Practical Test Standards (PTS) and is used by examiners during checkrides.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ADM (Aeronautical Decision-Making)
- A systematic approach to the mental process used by pilots to consistently determine the best course of action in response to a given set of circumstances. ADM incorporates risk management, situational awareness, and sound judgment.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast)
- A surveillance technology in which aircraft broadcast GPS-derived position and other data. ADS-B Out is required in much of controlled airspace; ADS-B In can deliver traffic and datalink weather that pilots use for strategic in-flight decisions, not close tactical maneuvering.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- AGL (Above Ground Level)
- A measurement of altitude expressed in feet above the terrain or ground directly below the aircraft. AGL is commonly used for traffic pattern altitudes and obstacle clearance.
- Aileron
- A hinged flight control surface on the trailing edge of each wing that controls the aircraft's roll about its longitudinal axis. Moving the control yoke or stick left or right deflects the ailerons in opposite directions.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- AIRMET (Airmen's Meteorological Information)
- An in-flight weather advisory for conditions that may affect aircraft operations but are less severe than SIGMET criteria, such as moderate icing or turbulence, mountain obscuration, or widespread IFR. Modern briefings commonly present these as G-AIRMETs (graphical AIRMETs).Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Airspace
- Defined areas of the atmosphere designated by the FAA with specific rules and requirements for aircraft operations. U.S. airspace is classified into Classes A, B, C, D, E, and G, each with different visibility, cloud clearance, and communication requirements.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Airspeed Indicator
- A flight instrument that displays the aircraft's speed through the air, typically in knots. It works by measuring the difference between pitot (ram air) pressure and static pressure. The indicator features colored arcs showing operating speed ranges.
- Airworthiness
- The condition in which an aircraft conforms to its type design and is in a condition for safe flight. Under 14 CFR 91.7, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is airworthy, and the pilot in command is responsible for that determination before each flight.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- AME (Aviation Medical Examiner)
- A physician designated by the FAA to perform medical examinations for pilot certificates. AMEs evaluate vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and general fitness to determine if applicants meet medical standards.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- AMT (Aviation Maintenance Technician)
- A certified technician authorized to inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft. AMTs hold Airframe and/or Powerplant (A&P) certificates issued by the FAA after completing approved training and passing written, oral, and practical exams.Learn more in Part 147 Maintenance →
- Angle of Attack (AOA)
- The angle between the chord line of an airfoil (wing) and the relative wind. As angle of attack increases, lift increases up to the critical angle of attack, beyond which the wing stalls regardless of airspeed or attitude.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Annual Inspection
- A thorough aircraft inspection required at least once every 12 calendar months under 14 CFR 91.409(a). No person may operate an aircraft unless it has had an annual inspection within the preceding 12 calendar months. An annual also satisfies the 100-hour inspection requirement when applicable.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ARROW
- A student-pilot mnemonic for the documents that must be aboard an aircraft: Airworthiness certificate, Registration certificate, Radio station license (when required for international operations), Operating limitations (POH/AFM), and Weight and balance data. ARROW pairs with AV1ATE, which covers required inspections.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ASOS (Automated Surface Observing System)
- An automated weather observing system that continuously reports surface weather at many airports, including wind, visibility, sky condition, temperature, dew point, and altimeter setting. ASOS observations often feed METARs and may be available by frequency or telephone when ATIS is not.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service)
- A continuous broadcast of recorded aeronautical information at airports with control towers. ATIS provides current weather, active runways, NOTAMs, and other operational information, updated hourly or when conditions change significantly.
- Attitude Indicator
- Also known as the artificial horizon, this gyroscopic instrument displays the aircraft's pitch and bank attitude relative to the actual horizon. It is the primary instrument for maintaining aircraft control during instrument flight.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
- AV1ATE
- A mnemonic for the inspections and checks that keep an aircraft airworthy: Annual, VOR check (IFR), 100-hour, Altimeter/static system (IFR), Transponder, and ELT. Student pilots use AV1ATE with ARROW to confirm both documents and inspection currency before flight.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System)
- An automated airport weather system that broadcasts real-time observations such as wind, visibility, sky condition, temperature, dew point, and altimeter setting. AWOS is common at nontowered airports and is a primary weather source when ATIS is unavailable.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
C
- Cabin Pressure Altitude
- The pressure altitude inside the aircraft cabin — the altitude the occupants physiologically experience. Under 14 CFR 91.211, supplemental oxygen requirements are based on cabin pressure altitude, which in an unpressurized airplane is generally close to the airplane's pressure altitude.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- CFI (Certified Flight Instructor)
- A pilot who holds an FAA Flight Instructor certificate and is authorized to provide flight training. CFIs must hold at least a Commercial Pilot License and demonstrate teaching proficiency through written and practical examinations.Learn more in Flight Instructor →
- CFII (Certified Flight Instructor — Instrument)
- A flight instructor who holds an instrument instructor rating, authorizing them to provide instrument flight training. A CFII can sign off students for the Instrument Rating Knowledge Test and recommend them for the instrument checkride.Learn more in Flight Instructor →
- Chart Supplement
- An FAA publication (formerly the Airport/Facility Directory) with detailed airport data including frequencies, runway information, services, and remarks. Pilots use the Chart Supplement with sectional charts and EFBs during VFR flight planning.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Checkride
- The practical test administered by a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) to evaluate a pilot applicant's knowledge and flying skills. It consists of an oral examination and a flight test, both evaluated against the Airman Certification Standards.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Civil Twilight
- The period after sunset or before sunrise when the sun is no more than 6 degrees below the horizon. The FAA defines night for logging purposes as the time between the end of evening civil twilight and the beginning of morning civil twilight.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Class B Airspace
- Controlled airspace surrounding the nation's busiest airports (e.g., LAX, JFK, ORD). Operations within Class B require an ATC clearance, a functioning transponder with Mode C, and at least a Private Pilot certificate (student pilots need specific endorsements).Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Convective SIGMET
- A SIGMET issued for thunderstorm-related hazards, including severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, heavy precipitation, hail, and strong winds. Convective SIGMETs are reviewed during preflight hazard checks because they identify areas where VFR and IFR flight may be unsafe.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- CRM (Crew Resource Management)
- A set of training procedures used in aviation to optimize human performance by reducing the effect of human error. CRM focuses on communication, situational awareness, problem-solving, decision-making, and teamwork among flight crew members.Learn more in Commercial Pilot License →
- Crosswind
- A wind component that blows perpendicular to the aircraft's direction of travel, particularly relevant during takeoff and landing. Pilots use specific techniques (crab method or wing-low method) to compensate for crosswind conditions.
- CTAF (Common Traffic Advisory Frequency)
- The frequency used by pilots to announce position and intentions at nontowered airports. CTAF communications help aircraft maintain traffic awareness in the pattern and on the ground when no control tower is operating.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
D
- Dead Reckoning
- A navigation method where the pilot calculates their current position by using a previously determined position, then advancing that position based on known speed, elapsed time, and course. It's a fundamental piloting skill used alongside electronic navigation.
- DME (Distance Measuring Equipment)
- An avionics system that measures the slant-range distance between the aircraft and a ground station in nautical miles. DME is often paired with VOR stations and used for instrument navigation and approach procedures.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
- DPE (Designated Pilot Examiner)
- An experienced pilot designated by the FAA to conduct practical tests (checkrides) for pilot certificates and ratings. DPEs evaluate applicants on behalf of the FAA Administrator.
E
- E6B Flight Computer
- A circular slide rule used by pilots for flight planning calculations including true airspeed, wind correction angle, fuel burn, distance, and time. Modern electronic versions exist, but the manual E6B remains a standard training tool.
- EFB (Electronic Flight Bag)
- An electronic device or application used by pilots for charts, airport diagrams, weather, flight planning, and document reference in place of paper materials. Student pilots commonly use EFBs to find ATIS frequencies, NOTAMs, and Chart Supplement data.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitter)
- A radio transmitter that activates after a crash to help search-and-rescue locate the aircraft. ELT batteries and inspections are part of the AV1ATE currency checks pilots verify before flight.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
F
- FAR (Federal Aviation Regulations)
- The rules prescribed by the FAA governing all aviation activities in the United States. Key parts include Part 61 (pilot certification), Part 91 (general operating rules), Part 141 (flight school certification), and Part 135 (commuter and on-demand operations).Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- FBO (Fixed Base Operator)
- A commercial business at an airport that provides aviation services such as fuel, hangar space, aircraft parking, flight training, aircraft rental, and maintenance. FBOs serve as the primary service provider at most general aviation airports.
- FDC NOTAM
- A Flight Data Center NOTAM that publishes regulatory information such as changes to instrument approach procedures, chart amendments, and temporary flight restrictions. FDC NOTAMs are distinct from airport/facility (D) NOTAMs and must be reviewed in preflight planning.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Final Approach
- The last segment of an instrument or visual approach procedure in which the aircraft is aligned with the runway and descending for landing. During instrument approaches, the final approach begins at the final approach fix (FAF).
- Flaps
- Hinged surfaces on the trailing edge of the wing that increase both lift and drag when extended. Flaps allow the aircraft to fly at slower speeds during approach and landing, and enable shorter takeoff rolls. Common types include plain, split, slotted, and Fowler flaps.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Flight Review
- Training required under 14 CFR 61.56 to act as pilot in command. A satisfactory flight review generally must be completed in the preceding 24 calendar months and includes at least one hour of ground training and one hour of flight training with an authorized instructor. It is training, not a checkride, and certain practical tests, proficiency checks, or a WINGS phase can satisfy the requirement.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Flight Service (FSS)
- The FAA Flight Service system that provides weather briefings, flight plan filing and services, and NOTAM information to pilots by phone, radio, or online tools. Pilots may also self-brief with approved sources; Flight Service remains available in a consultative role.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- FOI (Fundamentals of Instruction)
- The body of knowledge covering the learning process, teaching methods, assessment techniques, and human behavior that flight instructor candidates must master. The FOI written test is required for all initial CFI applicants.Learn more in Flight Instructor →
G
- Go-Around
- A rejected landing in which the pilot discontinuues the approach, adds power, establishes a climb, and either re-enters the traffic pattern or follows ATC instructions. Go-arounds are a normal safety tool when spacing, wake turbulence, runway condition, or approach stability is wrong.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- GPS (Global Positioning System)
- A satellite-based navigation system that provides precise position, altitude, and ground speed information to aircraft. GPS is the primary means of navigation for many IFR procedures including RNAV approaches.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
- Ground Effect
- An increase in aerodynamic efficiency that occurs when an aircraft flies very close to the ground (typically within one wingspan height). Ground effect reduces induced drag, which is why aircraft may float during landing if carrying excess speed.
- Ground School
- The classroom-based or online portion of flight training that covers aeronautical knowledge including aerodynamics, weather, navigation, regulations, aircraft systems, and flight planning. Ground school prepares students for the FAA Knowledge Test.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
H
- Heading Indicator
- A gyroscopic flight instrument that provides a stable directional reference for the aircraft. Unlike a magnetic compass, the heading indicator is not affected by turning errors or magnetic dip, but must be periodically realigned with the compass.
- Holding Pattern
- A predetermined maneuver that keeps aircraft within a specified airspace while awaiting further clearance from ATC. Holding patterns are racetrack-shaped and defined by a fix, inbound course, and direction of turns (standard is right turns).Learn more in Instrument Rating →
- Hypoxia
- A condition in which the body is not getting or using enough oxygen. In flight, hypoxia can impair judgment, coordination, vision, and decision-making — sometimes with euphoria that makes the impairment hard to self-detect. Suspected hypoxia calls for supplemental oxygen and a descent as conditions allow.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
I
- IFR (Instrument Flight Rules)
- A set of regulations and procedures for flying aircraft by reference to instruments only, without visual reference to the ground. IFR flight requires an Instrument Rating, an IFR-equipped aircraft, and an ATC clearance.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
- ILS (Instrument Landing System)
- A precision instrument approach system that provides both lateral (localizer) and vertical (glideslope) guidance to the runway. ILS approaches allow landings in lower visibility conditions than non-precision approaches.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
- Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC)
- An instrument proficiency evaluation with an authorized instructor or examiner under 14 CFR 61.57(d). An IPC restores instrument currency when a pilot has not met recent instrument experience requirements and is distinct from the broader flight review under 61.56.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
K
- Knot
- The standard unit of speed in aviation, equal to one nautical mile per hour (approximately 1.15 statute miles per hour or 1.852 kilometers per hour). Airspeed, wind speed, and ground speed are typically expressed in knots.
L
- Load Factor
- The ratio of the lift produced by the wings to the actual weight of the aircraft. In level flight, load factor is 1G. During turns, load factor increases — a 60-degree banked turn produces a 2G load factor, doubling the effective weight on the wings.Learn more in Commercial Pilot License →
- Logbook
- A record where pilots document their flight time, including date, aircraft type, route, conditions (day/night, VFR/IFR), and type of experience (solo, dual, PIC). Accurate logbook entries are required to prove eligibility for certificates and ratings.
M
- METAR
- A standardized format for reporting current weather conditions at an airport. METARs include wind, visibility, cloud cover, temperature, dewpoint, and altimeter setting. Pilots use METARs for preflight weather briefings and in-flight decision-making.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- MSL (Mean Sea Level)
- A measurement of altitude expressed in feet above the average level of the ocean surface. MSL altitude is used for en route navigation, airspace boundaries, and instrument approach procedures. Altimeters display MSL altitude when set to the local altimeter setting.
- Multi-Engine Rating
- An add-on rating to a pilot certificate that authorizes the pilot to fly aircraft with more than one engine. Training focuses on engine-out procedures, Vmc demonstrations, asymmetric thrust management, and multi-engine systems.Learn more in Multi-Engine Rating →
N
- Night Currency
- The recent flight experience required to carry passengers at night. Under 14 CFR 61.57(b), a pilot needs three takeoffs and three landings to a full stop within the preceding 90 days, accomplished during the period from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions)
- A notice containing information concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure, or hazard. Pilots are required to check NOTAMs during preflight planning.
O
- Outlook Briefing
- A Flight Service weather briefing used for early planning when departure is six hours or more away. An outlook briefing highlights whether a weather system or broad hazard may affect the flight, but it is not a substitute for a standard or abbreviated briefing closer to departure.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
P
- PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator)
- A visual approach slope indicator system using a row of light units beside the runway to show whether the aircraft is above, on, or below the desired glide path. A disabled or NOTAMed PAPI can change a night or VFR approach plan.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Part 141
- Title 14 CFR Part 141 — the FAA regulation governing pilot schools that operate under an FAA-approved curriculum. Part 141 schools offer structured training programs that may allow students to complete certificates with fewer minimum flight hours.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Part 147
- Title 14 CFR Part 147 — the FAA regulation governing aviation maintenance technician schools. Part 147 schools provide the training required to earn Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificates for aircraft maintenance.Learn more in Part 147 Maintenance →
- Part 61
- Title 14 CFR Part 61 — the FAA regulation governing certification of pilots, flight instructors, and ground instructors. Part 61 training allows flexible scheduling and is the most common path for private pilot students.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Part 91
- Title 14 CFR Part 91 — the FAA regulation covering general operating and flight rules for all aircraft operations in U.S. airspace. Part 91 defines rules for VFR/IFR flight, equipment requirements, maintenance responsibilities, and pilot-in-command authority.
- Personal Minimums
- Pilot-specific limits that are more restrictive than legal weather, altitude, or aircraft limits — such as ceiling, visibility, crosswind, fuel reserves, or an oxygen-use altitude. Written personal minimums keep go/no-go and equipment decisions consistent under schedule or passenger pressure.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- PIC (Pilot in Command)
- The pilot designated as the final authority and directly responsible for the operation and safety of the flight. The PIC has the authority to deviate from any rule in an emergency to the extent required to meet the emergency.
- PIREP (Pilot Weather Report)
- An observation of weather conditions reported by a pilot in flight. PIREPs describe conditions such as turbulence, icing, cloud bases and tops, visibility, and wind shear, giving other pilots timely evidence to compare against forecasts.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Pitot-Static System
- The system of pressure-sensing instruments that includes the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator. It works by comparing ram air pressure (from the pitot tube) with static atmospheric pressure (from static ports).
- Preflight Inspection
- A thorough visual and physical inspection of the aircraft performed by the pilot before each flight. The preflight checks fuel quantity and quality, oil level, control surfaces, tires, lights, and overall aircraft condition using the manufacturer's checklist.
R
- RNAV (Area Navigation)
- A method of navigation that allows aircraft to fly on any desired flight path within the coverage of referenced navigation signals or within the limits of self-contained system capability (GPS). RNAV approaches are the most common GPS-based instrument approaches.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
S
- Sectional Chart
- An aeronautical chart used for VFR navigation that depicts topographic features, airspace boundaries, airports, navigation aids, and other information at a scale of 1:500,000. Sectional charts are updated every 56 days.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- SIGMET (Significant Meteorological Information)
- An in-flight weather advisory for significant hazards that may affect all aircraft, such as severe icing, severe or extreme turbulence, dust storms, or volcanic ash. SIGMETs are checked with convective SIGMETs and G-AIRMETs when building a route weather picture.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Slip/Skid
- Uncoordinated flight conditions. A slip occurs when the aircraft is banked too much for the rate of turn (ball deflected toward the turn). A skid occurs when there is too much rudder for the bank angle (ball deflected away from the turn). The inclinometer (ball) indicates coordination.
- Solo Flight
- A flight in which the student pilot is the sole occupant of the aircraft. Before the first solo, the student must receive endorsements from their flight instructor certifying competence in the specific aircraft type and at the specific airport.
- Special Use Airspace (SUA)
- Airspace of defined dimensions where activities must be confined or where limitations are imposed on aircraft not participating in those activities. Types include prohibited, restricted, warning, military operations (MOA), alert, and controlled firing areas; status is often verified via NOTAMs and charts.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Stall
- An aerodynamic condition where the wing exceeds its critical angle of attack and can no longer produce sufficient lift to sustain flight. A stall can occur at any airspeed, in any attitude, and at any power setting — it is always caused by exceeding the critical angle of attack.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Standard Briefing
- A complete Flight Service weather briefing requested within about six hours of departure when the pilot has not already received a full briefing. It is the detailed package used to evaluate route weather, hazards, winds, and operational information before a go/no-go decision.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Supplemental Oxygen
- Oxygen provided to crew or passengers to prevent hypoxia at altitude. For unpressurized Part 91 flights under 14 CFR 91.211, required minimum flight crew must use oxygen after more than 30 minutes above 12,500 feet cabin altitude, continuously above 14,000 feet, and every occupant must be provided oxygen above 15,000 feet. FAA guidance also encourages earlier use, especially at night.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
T
- TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast)
- A weather forecast in coded format issued for airports, covering a 24 or 30 hour period. TAFs predict wind, visibility, cloud cover, and significant weather changes. Pilots use TAFs alongside METARs for flight planning decisions.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- TFR (Temporary Flight Restriction)
- A temporary airspace restriction issued by NOTAM that limits or prohibits aircraft operations in a defined area for reasons such as disaster relief, VIP movement, or special events. Checking TFRs is a core part of VFR preflight NOTAM review.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Traffic Pattern
- The standard rectangular flight path around an airport used for arrivals, departures, and training. Pattern legs typically include upwind, crosswind, downwind, base, and final. Night training for private pilots requires takeoffs and landings involving flight in the traffic pattern.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Transponder
- An electronic device in the aircraft that transmits a coded signal when interrogated by ground radar. Mode C transponders report altitude. Mode S transponders support ADS-B Out, which is required in most controlled airspace.
V
- VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator)
- A visual glide-path aid that uses red and white light bars beside the runway to help pilots maintain a safe approach angle. A disabled VASI is a common NOTAM item that can change night or VFR approach planning.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- VFR (Visual Flight Rules)
- A set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft by visual reference to the ground and specific visibility and cloud clearance requirements. VFR flight is the standard for private pilots and does not require an instrument rating.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Vmc (Minimum Control Speed)
- The minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain directional control with one engine inoperative, the other at takeoff power, and specific configurations. Vmc is a critical concept in multi-engine training and marked with a red radial line on the airspeed indicator.Learn more in Multi-Engine Rating →
- VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range)
- A ground-based radio navigation aid that transmits VHF signals in 360 radials, allowing pilots to determine their magnetic bearing to or from the station. VORs are used for en route navigation and many instrument approach procedures.Learn more in Instrument Rating →
W
- Wake Turbulence
- Counter-rotating wingtip vortices generated by an aircraft producing lift. Wake turbulence is strongest behind heavy, clean, slow aircraft and can exceed a light airplane's roll-control authority. Pilots avoid it by staying above and landing beyond a preceding heavier aircraft's path.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Weight and Balance
- The calculation performed before each flight to ensure the aircraft's total weight is within limits and the center of gravity (CG) falls within the approved envelope. Improper weight and balance can make an aircraft uncontrollable.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- Wind Shear
- A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, including low-level wind shear near the surface. Wind shear is a hazard that can appear in PIREPs and weather briefings and may require a go-around or delayed departure.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
- WINGS (Pilot Proficiency Program)
- An FAA-sponsored voluntary proficiency program. Completing a phase of WINGS can satisfy the flight review requirement under 14 CFR 61.56 and gives returning or active pilots a structured way to keep building knowledge and skills between formal reviews.Learn more in Private Pilot License →
Z
- Zulu Time
- Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), used as the standard time reference in aviation worldwide to eliminate confusion across time zones. All flight plans, METARs, TAFs, and NOTAMs use Zulu time. For example, 1500Z is 3:00 PM UTC.
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