Definition

Verb: - To fly an aircraft at an extremely low altitude, often recklessly or as a stunt, skimming very close to the ground or other surfaces.

Usage

This is a specific, informal term used primarily in aviation contexts. It describes a dangerous and often unauthorized flying maneuver. - The pilot decided to flat-hat over the open field, thrilling the spectators below. - Military pilots are sometimes trained to flat-hat to avoid radar detection.

Advanced Usage

• The term can imply a lack of regard for safety regulations or standard operating procedures.
• It is often associated with showing off or daring stunts.

Variants and Related Words

• Flat-hatting (gerund/noun): The act of flying in this manner.
  • His flat-hatting over the lake resulted in a disciplinary hearing.

Synonyms

• Buzz: To fly low and fast over an area.
• Hedge-hop: To fly at a very low altitude, following the contours of the ground.

Notes

• "Flat-hat" is not a common phrasal verb in general English. It is a fixed compound verb specific to aviation jargon.
• The term's origin is believed to come from early aviation, possibly referring to the flat caps worn by pilots, with the action being so low it might knock one's hat off.

Verb

1. fly very close to the ground