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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.
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- Pitot-Static SystemThe 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). Under 14 CFR 91.411, the altimeter and static pressure system must be tested within the preceding 24 calendar months for IFR operations in controlled airspace.
- POH (Pilot's Operating Handbook)The manufacturer handbook that contains operating limitations, procedures, performance data, and systems information for a specific aircraft. For many airplanes the approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) or POH satisfies the 14 CFR 91.9 requirement to have operating limitations available in the aircraft.
- Position LightsNavigation lights that show an aircraft's orientation: red on the left wingtip, green on the right, and white on the tail. Approved position lights are required for night VFR under 14 CFR 91.205(c) and help other pilots judge relative position in the traffic pattern.
- Power-Off StallA stall practiced with idle or reduced power to simulate the approach-to-landing configuration and teach recognition and recovery near the critical angle of attack. Student pilots commonly log power-off stalls with slow flight and pattern work as foundational private-pilot maneuvers.