Plain English Meaning

An aircraft whose cockpit uses computer screens and integrated electronics to show flight information, instead of the older round mechanical gauges.

Full Definition

An aircraft equipped with an integrated electronic flight instrument system, typically including a primary flight display (PFD), a multi-function display (MFD), and a GPS navigator, that replaces traditional mechanical instruments with digital screens and computer-driven information.

Context Anchor

Seen when comparing traditional instrument panels with modern glass-cockpit aircraft in aircraft systems and flight training discussions.

Derivation

‘Avionics’ is a blend of ‘aviation’ and ‘electronics,’ coined in the 1940s for the electronic used in aircraft. ‘Advanced’ here points to the shift from individual mechanical instruments to integrated digital displays.