Definition
Specific maneuvers and visual scanning techniques pilots perform before and during flight maneuvers to ensure the airspace around the airplane is free of other traffic. Common methods include shallow S-turns, gentle climbing or descending turns of at least 90 degrees, and a deliberate visual scan of the area in which the maneuver will be conducted.
Plain English
Before doing a flight maneuver, the pilot turns and looks around to make sure no other aircraft are nearby. It is a quick, deliberate way to check that the sky is clear before starting.
Context Anchor
Used in collision avoidance, especially before practice maneuvers, turns, climbs, descents, or any training exercise where the airplane’s path may change.
Derivation
From 'clear,' meaning free of obstruction. In aviation, 'clearing' the area means visually confirming the airspace is empty of traffic before committing to a maneuver that may limit your ability to scan.
Why Pilots Care
These procedures directly reduce the risk of mid-air collision by ensuring the pilot has visually confirmed the airspace is clear before moving the aircraft.
Intuition Check
Clearing procedures does not mean getting an ATC clearance here. It means visually checking that the airspace around the airplane is clear of hazards.
Example Sentence 1
Before entering the practice area, the student performed clearing procedures with two 90-degree turns to check for traffic.
Example Sentence 2
The instructor reminded the student to complete clearing procedures prior to each chandelle to verify the area was free of traffic.