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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.
Related Terms
- AileronA 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.
- AIM (Aeronautical Information Manual)The FAA's official guide to basic flight information and ATC procedures for operating in the National Airspace System. Pilots use the AIM for practical guidance on topics such as airport lighting, weather services, and communications that complement the regulations in the FARs.
- 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).
- Airplane Flying Handbook (AFH)The FAA handbook (FAA-H-8083-3) that covers flight maneuvers, takeoffs and landings, night operations, and other airplane flying techniques. Student pilots and instructors use it alongside the ACS as a primary reference for how to fly procedures correctly.