Private Aviation Glossary

The main structural components of an aircraft, including the fuselage, wings, empennage, and other parts that form the aircraft's physical structure.

Aviation shorthand for “Aircraft on Ground.” It refers to a situation where an aircraft is unable to operate because of a mechanical, maintenance, technical, or other operational issue.

The electronic systems used to operate, navigate, communicate, and monitor an aircraft, including flight instruments, navigation equipment, communication systems, and other onboard technology.

The hiring of an entire aircraft for a specific journey or period of use, typically allowing passengers to choose their preferred schedule, route, and aircraft type.

A Fixed-Base Operator is a service provider at an airport that supports private and business aircraft with services such as passenger lounges, aircraft handling, fueling, hangar facilities, and ground transportation.

Instrument Flight Rules are regulations and procedures that allow aircraft to operate primarily by reference to flight instruments and air traffic control guidance rather than relying solely on outside visual conditions.

A kerosene-based aviation fuel commonly used by turbine-powered aircraft, including most private jets.

Maximum Takeoff Weight is the maximum certified weight at which an aircraft is permitted to begin a flight.

A section of U.S. aviation regulations that generally governs the operation of privately owned and non-commercial aircraft.

A section of U.S. aviation regulations that governs many on-demand commercial operations, including certain air charter and air taxi services.

The maximum distance an aircraft can typically travel under specified operating conditions before requiring additional fuel.

The usable length of an airport runway available for aircraft takeoff and landing operations.

A specialised pilot qualification required to operate certain aircraft types, particularly larger, more complex, or high-performance aircraft.

Visual Flight Rules are regulations that allow pilots to operate an aircraft primarily by maintaining visual reference to the surrounding environment.

Aerodynamic structures fitted near the tips of an aircraft's wings that help reduce drag and can improve fuel efficiency and overall performance.

The total weight of an aircraft, including passengers, baggage, cargo, and equipment, but excluding usable fuel.