Definition
Fixed visual references on a runway that a pilot uses during the final approach to maintain a stabilized descent path to the landing surface. The aiming point is the spot the aircraft would strike if the descent angle were continued unchanged; it is not the point where the aircraft actually touches down, since the pilot raises the nose and flares before reaching it. On runways with standard markings, two large rectangular markings located about 1,000 feet from the threshold serve as the aiming point markings.
Plain English
The spot on the runway you keep your eyes locked onto during the final part of an approach. By holding that spot steady in the windshield, you stay on the correct glide path. You don't actually land on it — you flare just before reaching it.
Context Anchor
Used during landing instruction, especially when teaching students how to judge glidepath, correct a high or low approach, and avoid landing too far down the runway.
Why Pilots Care
Using the correct aiming points ensures adequate runway length remains for stopping and reduces the risk of landing short or floating too far.
Grounding Statement
If the point on the runway is moving up in the windshield, you are trending low; if it is moving down, you are trending high; if it stays fixed, your current path is taking you toward it.
Intuition Check
Aiming point does not mean the exact spot where the wheels must touch down. It means the visual reference used to guide the approach before the airplane is leveled off for landing.
Example Sentence 1
On final approach, the instructor told the student to pick the runway aiming points and keep them stationary in the windshield.
Example Sentence 2
Instructors emphasize the aiming points so students consistently land in the first third of the runway.