Continuous Descent Approach. Also known as Continuous Descent Operations (CDO). Subject to airspace design and use, and in ideal conditions, allows an aircraft to practically glide to an airport with engines at idle power. This results in lower noise levels compared to traditional approach paths that have intermediate altitudes where an aircraft wi [..]

Usually refers to aircraft that are taking off, flying in a rectangular type pattern and landing again as part of their operational training.

Airspace that is managed by air traffic controller (ATC). Not all airspace is under the control of ATC, but near major airports and in busy flight path areas, airspace in Australia is controlled.

Legislated procedures at an airport to restrict the types of aircraft and the way they can operate at an airport overnight. Four airports in Australia have a curfew – Sydney, Adelaide, Gold Coast and Essendon.

Any aircraft other than helicopters. Helicopters are referred to as ‘rotary wing’ aircraft.

A term commonly used to describe a grouping of  flight tracks taken by aircraft.

A single path depicting where an aircraft intends to fly.

A broad explanation of a flight from one point to another. For example, a Sydney to Melbourne aircraft might plan via Wollongong, Canberra and Eildon Weir.

A line on a map showing exactly where an aircraft actually flew.

Voluntary procedures adopted by pilots to minimise the effect of aircraft noise at an airport.