Definition
The use of specialized computer software to create, modify, analyze, and document technical drawings and three-dimensional models of parts, assemblies, and systems used in aircraft design and maintenance.
Plain English
Drawing and designing aircraft parts and systems on a computer instead of on paper, using software that lets you build accurate models and produce precise technical drawings.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation maintenance, engineering drawings, repair planning, parts fabrication, and design documentation.
Derivation
From the everyday English words 'computer aided' (helped by a computer) and 'design' (planning how something is made). The term simply names the activity: designing with the help of a computer.
Why Pilots Care
Technicians often work from drawings and diagrams produced by CAD systems. Knowing the term helps when reading manuals, engineering orders, or repair instructions that reference CAD-generated illustrations.
Intuition Check
CAD is not the finished aircraft part itself. It is the computer-based design drawing or model used to plan, make, or check the part.
Example Sentence 1
The replacement bracket was modeled in CAD before being machined to ensure it would fit the existing structure.
Example Sentence 2
CAD models allow precise checks to confirm new parts will align correctly inside the aircraft structure.