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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.
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- TransponderAn 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.