Aviation Glossary

Common terms and acronyms used in aviation accident documentation

ATC (Air Traffic Control): Ground-based controllers who direct aircraft movements, maintain separation, and manage airspace.
CRM (Crew Resource Management): Training and procedures that improve teamwork, communication, and decision-making in the cockpit.
CFIT (Controlled Flight Into Terrain): When an airworthy aircraft under pilot control crashes into terrain, water, or obstacles.
V1: Critical decision speed during takeoff. Below V1, the crew can abort; above V1, they must continue.
VFR/IFR: Visual Flight Rules (flying by sight) vs. Instrument Flight Rules (flying by instruments in poor visibility).

CVR (Cockpit Voice Recorder): Records all audio in the cockpit including crew conversations and radio communications. Critical for accident investigation.
FDR (Flight Data Recorder): Records hundreds of flight parameters (speed, altitude, control inputs). Often called the "black box" (actually orange).
GPWS (Ground Proximity Warning System): Automated system that alerts pilots when the aircraft is too close to terrain or obstacles.
TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System): Automated system that detects nearby aircraft and provides collision avoidance instructions.

NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board): US agency that investigates all civil aviation accidents and makes safety recommendations.
FAA (Federal Aviation Administration): US regulatory body that sets and enforces aviation safety standards.
ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization): UN agency that establishes international aviation standards and protocols.
AD (Airworthiness Directive): Legally enforceable regulations issued when an unsafe condition exists in an aircraft type.

Stall: Loss of lift when airflow over the wings becomes disrupted (not related to engine failure).
Wind Shear: Sudden change in wind speed or direction that can destabilize an aircraft during takeoff or landing.
Hypoxia: Oxygen deficiency affecting the brain, often from cabin depressurization or high altitude.
Fatigue (Metal): Weakening of aircraft structure from repeated stress cycles over time.
Hydraulics: Pressurized fluid systems that control flight surfaces, landing gear, and brakes.