Definition
Reference markings on the face of the turn coordinator that the miniature aircraft's wingtips align with to indicate a standard-rate turn. When the wingtip of the miniature aircraft is level with the alignment mark, the aircraft is turning at three degrees per second, which produces a 360-degree turn in two minutes.
Plain English
Small marks on the turn coordinator face that show you how fast you are turning. When the little airplane's wingtip lines up with the mark, you are turning at the standard rate.
Context Anchor
Seen on the turn coordinator during instrument flying, especially when checking that the aircraft is holding straight-and-level flight.
Why Pilots Care
Proper alignment confirms the aircraft is not yawing or turning, avoiding disorientation in instrument conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not read alignment marks as decorative lines on the instrument. Here, they are reference marks used to judge the position of the miniature airplane symbol.
Example Sentence 1
She rolled into the turn until the miniature aircraft's wingtip rested on the alignment mark, establishing a standard-rate turn.
Example Sentence 2
The turn coordinator showed the wings level on the alignment marks throughout the straight leg of the holding pattern.