Private Pilot License Flight Training - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards for reviewing key concepts about private pilot training.

Governor

A device that automatically regulates the speed of the engine by controlling the fuel flow.

Flyweight

A component in a governor that responds to centrifugal force, helping to regulate engine speed.

PPL

Private Pilot License, allowing a pilot to act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft.

PIC

Pilot in Command, responsible for the operation and safety of the flight.

PAVE

A risk management tool that stands for Pilot, Aircraft, Environment, and External pressures.

NWKRAFT

A mnemonic for flight preparation including Notams, Weather, Known traffic delays, Runway length, Alternatives, Fuel, and Takeoff and landing distances.

Aircraft Maintenance

Routine checks and servicing necessary to keep an aircraft airworthy.

AVIATE

A checklist for aircraft maintenance requirements including Airworthiness directives and VOR checks.

ATOMATOFLAMES

Minimum equipment required for VFR daytime flight, acronym for various instruments and safety devices.

FLAPS

Fuses, Landing lights, Anti-collision lights, Position lights, Source of electrical power required for VFR night flight.

Weather Briefing

A collection of information regarding the current and forecasted weather conditions for flight.

AIRMET

A weather advisory indicating conditions that may be hazardous to pilots.

SIGMET

Significant Meteorological Advisory which informs pilots about severe weather phenomena.

METAR

Aviation routine weather report providing current weather conditions.

TAF

Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, a weather forecast for a specific location.

Load Factor

A measure of the amount of load (force) acting on an aircraft during flight.

Va (Maneuvering Speed)

The maximum speed at which an aircraft can be safely maneuvered.

Descent Planning

The process of determining the best way to descend safely and efficiently.

Emergency Descent

A rapid descent initiated by the pilot in response to in-flight emergencies.

Spin Recovery

Actions taken to recover an aircraft from a spin, typically following the PARE method.

TAS (True Airspeed)

The speed of an aircraft relative to the air mass in which it is flying.

Groundspeed

The speed of an aircraft relative to the ground.

Altimeter

An instrument that measures the altitude of an aircraft above sea level.

Hypoxia

A condition resulting from insufficient oxygen reaching the body's tissues.

ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitter)

A device that emits a distress signal to assist in locating an aircraft in an emergency.

VFR (Visual Flight Rules)

Flight rules under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to allow the pilot to see where the aircraft is going.

IFR (Instrument Flight Rules)

Flight rules under which a pilot operates an aircraft in conditions of reduced visibility, using instruments.

VMC (Visible Moisture Conditions)

Conditions where moisture in the air is visible, often associated with clouds or precipitation.

Wake Turbulence

Turbulence that forms in the wake of an aircraft, caused by the vortex from its wings.

Microburst

A strong downdraft of air that can be hazardous to aircraft during approach and landing.

TFR (Temporary Flight Restriction)

A restriction aimed at prohibiting certain types of air traffic in airspace during a specific time.

VFR Corridor

A designated corridor through which VFR traffic may transit Class B airspace without ATC clearance.

FAR (Federal Aviation Regulations)

The regulations set by the FAA governing all aviation activities in the United States.

RAC (Right of Way Regulations)

Rules that establish who has the right of way in various flight scenarios.

Scuba Diving

The sport of underwater diving using a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus.

Night Flight Currency Requirements

Requirements for pilots to log night operations to carry passengers at night.

Hypoxia Recovery Techniques

Methods to recover from hypoxia, such as descending to lower altitudes.

Emergency Procedures

Steps to follow in response to in-flight emergencies.

Situational Awareness

The understanding of the aircraft's environment and conditions to make informed decisions.

CRM (Crew Resource Management)

A set of training, principles, and skills for effective cockpit teamwork.

Single Pilot Resource Management

Management strategies for pilots flying solo to optimize safety and performance.

VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range)

A type of radio navigation system for aircraft.

FSS (Flight Service Station)

A facility providing information and services to pilots.

ELT Inspection

Periodic checks to ensure an Emergency Locator Transmitter is functioning properly.

Flight Review

A review of flying skills and regulatory knowledge required for pilots every two years.

Medical Certificate

A validation of the physical and mental health required for certain pilot certifications.

Weight and Balance Check

Analysis of the aircraft's load distribution to ensure safe flying conditions.

Runway Length Requirements

Minimum runway length needed for safe takeoff and landing based on aircraft specifications.

Clearing Procedures

Actions taken to ensure airspace is clear for takeoff and landing.

Pre-flight Checklist

A comprehensive list pilots go through before a flight to ensure safety and readiness.

Throttle Control

The process of managing engine power during various phases of flight.

Cloud Cover Analysis

The assessment of cloud conditions relevant for VFR/IFR flight.

Aircraft Performance Charts

Tables that help pilots determine takeoff and landing distances based on conditions.

Weather Radar Use

Utilization of radar technology to detect weather conditions affecting flight.

Flight Plan Preparation

Documenting route, stops, and alternate airports prior to departure.

Ground Handling Procedures

Practices ensuring safe maneuvering of an aircraft on the ground.

Instrumentation Checks

Verifying that all flight instruments are functioning properly before takeoff.

Stall Recovery

Techniques used to recover from an aerodynamic stall.

Aircraft Accident Definition

An occurrence involving an aircraft operation that results in serious injury or damage.

Incident Reporting

The process of documenting occurrences that could compromise flight safety.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

Steps taken to safely exit an aircraft in an emergency situation.

Surface Analysis Chart

A chart representing current weather conditions at the earth's surface.

AIRMET Sierra

An advisory for conditions that may be hazardous to pilots under VFR.

VFR Minimums

Basic visibility and cloud clearance requirements for VFR operations.

SIGMET Tango

Advisory warning for turbulence affecting flight safety.

Weight Distribution Effects

How uneven load on an aircraft can impact performance and stability.

AD (Airworthiness Directive)

FAA regulations ensuring compliance with safety measures for aircraft.

Maintenance Logs

Records kept to document maintenance and repair history of an aircraft.

Preflight Inspection

In-depth overview of the aircraft to ensure it is safe for flight.

Aircraft Type Certification

Official approval of aircraft design features and safety standards.

Transition Altitude

The altitude where aircraft switch from local barometric pressure to standard pressure.

Altitude Adjustment Consideration

Calculations necessary when flying at varying altitudes.

Fueling Procedures

Set protocols for safely refueling aircraft.

Post-Flight Duties

Responsibilities of pilots after landing and securing the aircraft.

Emergency Fuel Management

Strategies for conserving fuel during unforeseen circumstances.

Aerodynamics Basics

Fundamental principles governing how aircraft fly through the air.

Pitot-Static System

Instruments used to measure airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed.

Emergency Communications Procedures

Protocols established for notifying authorities in emergencies.

Passenger Safety Briefing

Instruction provided to passengers before flight regarding safety procedures.

Evasive Action Techniques

Methods for pilots to avoid collisions or dangerous situations.

Runway incursion prevention

Strategies to avoid unauthorized aircraft presence on runways.

Weather Condition Evaluation

Assessment of atmospheric conditions to determine safety for operations.

Flight Path Optimization

Selecting the most efficient route for fuel and time efficiency.

Turbulence Types

Different categories of turbulence that may affect flight.

Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT)

Accidental collision with the ground or water while in flight.

Proficiency Check

Evaluation of a pilot's flying skills to maintain certification.

Best Glide Speed

The speed at which an aircraft will achieve the furthest distance in a glide.

Air Traffic Control Procedures

Protocols governing communication between pilots and ATC.

Transition to IFR

Switching from visual to instrument flight rules in adverse weather.

Limited Visibility Procedures

Guidelines for pilots operating in conditions with poor visibility.

Hazard Avoidance Strategies

Methods for pilots to identify and avoid possible hazards.

Terminal Area Forecasts

Weather predictions for specific airport locations.

Flight Safety Management

Oversight of procedures ensuring safety during flight operations.

Controlled Airspace Limitations

Regulations governing flight operations within specific airspaces.

Navigation Systems

Technologies assisting pilots in determining their position and course.

Aeronautical Charts

Maps designed specifically for aviation use.

Weather Phenomena Understanding

Knowledge of different types of weather events that impact flying.

Fuel Requirements Planning

Calculating necessary fuel based on distance and conditions.

Effective Communication in Cockpit

Clear dialogue between crew members to enhance flight safety.

Aircraft Systems Check

Verifying the functionality of all onboard aircraft systems.