Aviation Terms and Definitions

Vestibular Illusions In the absence of visual reference, we rely on our vestibular system to keep us oriented. But as previously explained, this system is totally unreliable for this purpose when in motion. Inversion Illusion An abrupt change from climb to straight-and-level flight can excessively stimulate the sensory organs for gravity and linear acceleration, creating the illusion of tumbling backwards. Tail Stall The horizontal stabilizer balances the tendency of the nose to pitch down by generating downward lift on the tail of the aircraft. When the tail stalls, this downward force is lessened or removed, and the nose of the airplane can severely pitch down. TCAS Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance Systems Technology in the cockpit can help pilots to see and avoid other aircraft. All air carrier aircraft are equipped with Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance Systems. SIGMET An in-flight weather advisory that is considered significant to all aircraft. SIGMET criteria include severe icing, severe and extreme turbulence, duststorms, sandstorms, volcanic eruptions, and volcanic ash that lower visibility to less than 3 miles. Adjustable-Pitch Propeller A propeller with blades whose pitch can be adjusted on the ground with the engine not running, but which cannot be adjusted in flight. Also referred to as a ground adjustable propeller. Sometimes also used to refer to onstant-speed propellers that are adjustable in flight. ILS holding position sign ATC may hold you at this sign when the instrument landing system is being used at the airport. REILs Runway end identifier lights Airport Lighting (For further information and a complete set of approach consist of a pair of synchronized flashing lights located on each side of the runway threshold. Propeller Anti-icers: Ice often forms on the propeller before it is visible on the wing. Props are treated with deicing fluid applied by slinger rings on the prop hub or with electrically heated elements on the leading edges. Cloud tops You cannot climb through a front with tops to 30,000 feet. For most light nonturbocharged aircraft, once the tops reach 8,000 feet, climbing is no longer an option.

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	Did You Know?
	In a propossed bill Surrender Of Possession -- Statutory Lien rights are explained Surrender Of Possession -- Statutory Lien. (1) Any Person, Firm, Or Corporation Who Expends Labor, Skill, Or Materials Upon An Aircraft, Air-Craft Engines, Propellers, Appliances, Or Spare Parts, At The,Request Of Its, Owner, Reputed Owner, Or Authorized Agent Of The Owner, Or Lawful Possessor Of The Aircraft, Has A Lien Upon The Aircraft, Or Related Equipment, For The Contract Price Of The Expenditure, Or In The Absence Of A Contract Price, For The Reasonable Value Of The Expenditure.