Reference
Aviation glossary
Concise definitions for aviation terminology — from METAR and NOTAM to aerodynamics and airline operations. Search directly or scan alphabetically.
F
Fatigue CrackingFatigue cracking is the gradual growth of cracks in aircraft materials caused by repeated cycles of stress, such as pressurization and depressurization, rather than a single overload. These cracks initiate at stress concentrators like fastener... Finite Element ModelingFinite element modeling (FEM) is a computational method that divides complex aircraft structures into thousands of small elements to simulate how stress, pressure, and loads distribute under flight conditions. Flight CategoryFlight category is an aircraft classification system based on reference landing speed (Vref) that determines runway requirements, approach minimums, and obstacle clearance standards for instrument procedures. Flight CodeA flight code is an alphanumeric identifier combining an airline's designator with a flight number to uniquely identify a scheduled airline service. Flight OperationFlight operation is the complete set of activities involved in planning, executing, and completing an aircraft flight, from pre-flight preparation through post-flight procedures. Flight PlanA flight plan is a formal document filed with air traffic control before departure that details the aircraft, route, altitude, departure time, and other operational information needed to coordinate and monitor the flight. Force MajeureA legal provision that excuses non-performance when an extraordinary event beyond anyone's control prevents meeting contractual obligations. In aviation, it covers unforeseeable situations like severe weather, natural disasters, or... Form dragForm drag is the aerodynamic resistance caused by an object's shape, resulting from the pressure difference between its front and rear as it moves through air. Freezing LevelThe freezing level is the altitude where outside air temperature drops to 0°C (32°F). At and above this altitude, supercooled water droplets in clouds can freeze on contact with aircraft surfaces, causing structural icing. Frequent flyer milesFrequent flyer miles are reward credits that airlines award to passengers based on flights taken or money spent. These credits can be redeemed for free flights, seat upgrades, or travel partner benefits. Frequent Flyer ProgramA loyalty program run by airlines that rewards passengers with miles or points for flights and purchases with partner companies, primarily credit card issuers. Members redeem accumulated miles for award flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and other... FrontA front is a boundary where two air masses with different temperatures and moisture levels collide, creating unstable atmospheric conditions and rapid weather changes. Fuel HedgingFuel hedging is a financial risk management strategy airlines use to lock in jet fuel prices in advance, protecting carriers from sudden price spikes that can significantly impact operating costs. Fuel UpliftFuel uplift is the quantity of fuel physically loaded onto an aircraft before flight. It represents the amount needed to reach the required total fuel on board, calculated as total fuel required minus fuel already remaining in the tanks. FuselageThe fuselage is the main structural body of an aircraft that connects the wings, tail, and landing gear while housing the crew, passengers, and cargo.
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