Aviation Glossary
12A comprehensive glossary of aviation terms, acronyms, and technical jargon explained in plain language.
Center of Gravity
CGThe point at which the aircraft's total weight is considered to act, critical for longitudinal stability and control effectiveness.
Aircraft PerformanceCruise Speed
The airspeed at which an aircraft operates most efficiently during the main en-route phase of flight.
Aircraft PerformanceFuel Efficiency
The amount of fuel consumed per passenger per kilometer, a key measure of aircraft operating economics and environmental impact.
Aircraft PerformanceLoad Factor
The percentage of available seats (or cargo capacity) filled with paying passengers or freight on a given flight or network.
Aircraft PerformanceMaximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)
The maximum certified weight at which an aircraft may attempt takeoff.
Aircraft PerformanceMinimum Control Speed
VMCThe minimum airspeed at which a multi-engine aircraft can maintain directional control following a critical engine failure with maximum asymmetric thrust.
Aircraft PerformancePayload
The total weight of revenue-generating load carried by an aircraft: passengers, baggage, and cargo.
Aircraft PerformanceRange
Maximum distance an aircraft can fly without refueling under standard conditions.
Aircraft PerformanceRate of Climb (ROC)
The vertical speed at which an aircraft gains altitude, measured in feet per minute.
Aircraft PerformanceService Ceiling
The maximum altitude at which an aircraft can sustain a climb rate of 100 ft/min under standard conditions.
Aircraft PerformanceTurnaround Time
The elapsed time between an aircraft's arrival at the gate and its departure on the next flight, encompassing all ground servicing activities.
Aircraft PerformanceWing Loading
The ratio of an aircraft's weight to its wing area, expressed in kg/m² or lb/ft², governing stall speed and ride quality.
Aircraft Performance