Definition
In instrument flying, to make a small, deliberate change to a control input, power setting, or instrument reference in order to correct a deviation from the desired flight condition. Adjustments are typically applied in measured increments after an initial change has been made and observed.
Plain English
To make a small correction to fine-tune what the airplane is doing — a nudge, not a big change.
Context Anchor
Seen when using flight instruments or an electronic flight display to hold or correct an airplane attitude, heading, altitude, or speed.
Derivation
From the Old French ajuster, meaning to bring close together or set right. The sense of 'fine-tuning to fit' carries directly into aviation: not a wholesale change, but a careful refinement.
Why Pilots Care
Accurate adjustments prevent unintended deviations that can lead to altitude or heading errors in instrument conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not read adjust as “make a big change until it looks right.” In this context, it means make a measured correction, then check the instruments to see the result.
Example Sentence 1
After leveling off, the pilot adjusted the power slightly to hold the target airspeed.
Example Sentence 2
After rolling out of the turn, adjust power to maintain the desired cruise speed.