Definition
The condition in which two or more components are positioned on a common axis or in their correct relative position so they operate as intended. In aircraft maintenance and rigging, alignment refers to the precise geometric positioning of structural parts, control surfaces, landing gear, or rotating components relative to a reference line or to each other.
Plain English
Parts are lined up correctly with each other so they sit, move, or rotate the way they're supposed to.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft maintenance, rigging, wheel and landing gear checks, instrument installation, and flight control inspections.
Derivation
From the French aligner, meaning 'to put in a line' (from à ligne, 'to a line'). The aviation use keeps that core idea: parts placed correctly along a reference line.
Why Pilots Care
Precise alignment prevents runway excursions on takeoff and landing and ensures accurate navigation references.
Intuition Check
Alignment does not just mean something looks neat or straight by eye. In aviation, it means the part is positioned correctly compared with the required reference or specification.
Example Sentence 1
After replacing the nose gear strut, the mechanic checked the wheel alignment against the manufacturer's specifications.
Example Sentence 2
After installing the new propeller, the mechanic verified engine alignment with the airframe reference marks.