Glossary
Navigating the complex world of aerospace can be daunting, especially when it comes to deciphering the industry's extensive list of abbreviations and technical terms. But fear not, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you make sense of it all.
From A to Z, this list of aerospace abbreviations and terms is your one-stop-shop for understanding the lingo used in this dynamic field. Whether you're an industry professional, a student, or simply curious about the aerospace industry, this resource will equip you with the knowledge you need to communicate effectively and stay ahead of the curve.
Explore this alphabetized guide and unlock the secrets of the aerospace world. With clear explanations and real-world examples, you'll be speaking the language of the skies in no time. Bookmark this page and refer to it whenever you encounter an unfamiliar acronym or technical jargon – your aerospace journey just got a whole lot smoother.
You can find out in the section User manual & help on how to use the Glossary filters on www.aerospacefacts.com. Just click on the link.
P3I | Pre-planned product improvement |
PA | Public address system |
also: | Passenger address system |
PACAF | Pacific Air Forces (USAF) |
PAH | PanzerAbwehrHubschrauber (German); anti-tank helicopter |
PAPI | Precision Approach Path Indicator |
PAR | Precision approach radar |
passenger load factor | Seat-kilometres used divided by seat-kilometres available; expressed as percentage |
Pax | Passenger(s) |
payload | - Commercial aircraft: revenue generating load |
- Military aircraft: total load of armament, cargo and mission equipment | |
PBW | Power-by-wire; uses electrical power to move control surfaces or perform other mechanical tasks |
PCN | Pavement classification number |
PCU | Power control unit |
Precision direction finder | |
PDR | Preliminary design review |
PDU | Power distribution unit |
PERM | Permanently |
PF | Pilot flying |
PFA | Popular Flying Association (UK); renamed Light Aircraft Association |
PFCS | Primary flight control system |
also: | Primary flight computer system |
PFD | Primary flight display; shows all data for aircraft flight path control |
PFP | Partnership For Peace (NATO) |
PGM | Precision guided munition |
phased array | Radar which scans the beam electronically in 1 or 2 axis while the antenna remains stationary |
PHI | Precision heading indicator |
also: | Precision homing indicator |
PI | Practice interception |
PIC | Pilot in command |
PICUS | Pilot in command under supervision |
PIREP | Pilot report |
PLC | Public limited company |
PMFD | Primary multi-function display |
PN | Part number |
pneumatic de-icing | Method of shedding ice accretion by pumping in and out a flexible surface coating |
PNF | Pilot not flying |
PNVS | Pilot night vision system |
POC | Proof of concept |
point defence | Defence of a specific area, city, installation |
POL | Petroleum, oil, lubricants |
port | Left side, while looking forward |
POS | Position |
power loading | MTOGW of aircraft divided by total thrust or total horsepower at take-off |
power train | A complete mechanical drive system |
PPI | Plan position indicator |
PPL | Private pilot's licence |
PPV | Pre-production verification |
PR | Photo-reconnaissance |
also: | Public relations |
PRELIM | Preliminary |
PRF | Pulse repetition frequency (for radar) |
proprotor | Large propeller capable of tilting, used for both vertical and forward flight |
psi | Pounds per square inch (1 psi = 0.069 bar) |
PSR | Post-strike reconnaissance |
PV | Private venture |
PWR | Passive warning receiver |
also: | Power |