Glossary
Safety & Regulations
Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS)
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Definition
An aircraft system that alerts pilots when the aircraft is in dangerous proximity to terrain
Related Terms
Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT)
An accident where an airworthy aircraft is flown into terrain, water, or an obstacle
Enhanced GPWS (EGPWS)
An advanced terrain awareness system combining GPS data with a terrain database
Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)
The lowest altitude providing obstacle clearance within a specified area
Mentioned In
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS)?
An aircraft system that alerts pilots when the aircraft is in dangerous proximity to terrain
What does GPWS stand for?
GPWS stands for Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS). An aircraft system that alerts pilots when the aircraft is in dangerous proximity to terrain
How does Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) relate to other aviation concepts?
Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) is closely related to Controlled Flight Into Terrain and Enhanced GPWS, among other key aviation concepts.
More in Safety & Regulations
Airworthiness Certificate
Bird Strike
Black Box (Flight Recorder) (FDR/CVR)
Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT)
Crew Resource Management (CRM)
Emergency Evacuation
Emergency Exit
Enhanced GPWS (EGPWS)
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Fire Suppression System
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Life Vest
MAYDAY
Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM)
PAN-PAN
Runway Incursion
Safety Management System (SMS)
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Wake Turbulence