Glossary
Aviation Safety
GPWS/EGPWS (Ground Proximity Warning System)
Definition
An aircraft system that alerts pilots when they are in danger of flying into terrain. The enhanced version (EGPWS) uses a terrain database to provide earlier, more accurate warnings.
Related Terms
TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System)
An aircraft system that monitors nearby aircraft transponder signals and provides resolution advisories (climb/descend) to prevent mid-air collisions, independent of air traffic control.
Wind Shear
A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, particularly dangerous during takeoff and landing. Can cause rapid changes in airspeed and lift.
Landing
The phase of flight in which an aircraft descends and makes contact with the runway surface. Involves approach, flare, touchdown, and rollout to decelerate to taxi speed.