Airworthy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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airworthy
[ɛrˈwɜrði ]
Definition
aviation quality
Airworthy refers to the condition of an aircraft being fit for flight. This means it meets all safety standards and regulations set by aviation authorities. An airworthy aircraft must be properly maintained and inspected to ensure that all systems are operational and that there are no defects. If an aircraft is deemed airworthy, it implies that it can be safely operated within flying parameters. Failure to maintain airworthiness can lead to serious safety issues and is a legal requirement in aviation.
Synonyms
fit to fly, flight-ready, safe for operation.
Examples of usage
- The aircraft was certified as airworthy after a thorough inspection.
- Before any flight, the pilot checks if the plane is airworthy.
- Regulations require all commercial planes to be airworthy.
- He reported that the old plane was no longer airworthy.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Aviation Regulations
- Airworthiness regulations ensure aircraft are maintained to specific safety standards before flight.
- In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues a certificate of airworthiness based on strict inspections.
History of Aviation
- The Wright brothers' pioneering aircraft were evaluated for airworthiness through early flight tests, leading to significant advancements.
- World War I saw the development of more rigorous testing standards, emphasizing safety for military aircraft.
Impact on Technology
- Advancements in materials science, like carbon fiber and composite materials, have improved airworthiness by making planes lighter and stronger.
- Innovative technologies, including sophisticated avionics and remote diagnostics, enhance an aircraft's maintainability and airworthiness.
Cultural Significance
- Movies often feature airworthy aircraft as symbols of freedom and adventure, capturing audiences’ imaginations.
- Air shows and aviation events celebrate airworthy planes, showcasing their importance in modern culture and technology.
Origin of 'airworthy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'airworthy' combines 'air,' meaning the atmosphere, and 'worthy,' meaning fit for use or effective.
- First recorded use appeared in aviation contexts around the early 1900s, reflecting aviation's growth.
The term 'airworthy' originated in the early 20th century, coinciding with the development of aviation as a mode of transportation. It is a compound of 'air,' referring to the atmosphere where aircraft operate, and 'worthy,' meaning deserving of or suitable for a particular purpose. The first recorded use of 'airworthy' was around the time of World War I when the need for reliable aircraft was paramount. During this period, standards for aircraft construction and maintenance were established, leading to regulations that mandated certain safety requirements. As aviation evolved post-war, the concept of airworthiness became integral to commercial and military flight operations, ensuring that all airborne vehicles could operate safely within the designed parameters. Over the years, various international organizations, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), have developed guidelines and standards to define and enforce airworthiness criteria.