Definition

1. Noun:
   • The final path followed by an aircraft as it is landing: A glide path is the precise, controlled descent trajectory an aircraft follows from the final approach phase until it touches down on the runway. It is typically defined by an angle, often around 3 degrees, and is guided by electronic signals from an instrument landing system (ILS).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The pilot carefully aligned the plane with the glide path for a smooth landing.
  • Air traffic control instructed the aircraft to intercept the glide path two miles from the runway.
  • Maintaining the correct glide path is crucial for safety during low-visibility conditions.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on/off the glide path": To be following or deviating from the correct descent trajectory.
  • The warning indicated the plane was slightly below the glide path.
• "To establish on the glide path": To successfully enter and stabilize on the correct descent trajectory.
  • The autopilot established the aircraft on the glide path at 1500 feet.

Variants and Related Words

• Glide slope (n): A synonym for "glide path," specifically referring to the angular guidance signal of an ILS that defines the descent path.
  • The glide slope antenna provides vertical guidance to the pilot.
• Approach path (n): A broader term for the flight path during the approach to landing, which includes the final glide path.
  • The approach path was clear of obstacles.

Synonyms

• Descent path: The path followed during descent.
• Final approach path: The path during the final segment of the landing approach.

Related Phrases

• "Glide path to retirement" (Idiom, metaphorical): A planned, gradual transition or progression toward a goal, such as retirement.
  • His financial plan created a smooth glide path to retirement.

Noun

1. the final path followed by an aircraft as it is landing