Definition
A visual scan of the surrounding sky performed before initiating a maneuver, used to ensure no other aircraft are in a position that could create a conflict during the maneuver. Typically accomplished with clearing turns or a series of gentle banks that allow the pilot to see into areas otherwise blocked by the aircraft structure.
Plain English
Looking around carefully before you start a maneuver to make sure no other aircraft are in your way or about to be.
Context Anchor
Used during flight training before an instructor or student demonstrates or practices a maneuver.
Derivation
Clear comes from an older word meaning bright or unobstructed. In aviation, the idea is not brightness; it is that the space is unobstructed and safe to use.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents mid-air collisions and ensures safe execution of training maneuvers.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as getting permission from air traffic control. Here, clearing the airspace means visually checking that the area around the airplane is safe and free of conflict.
Example Sentence 1
Before practicing power-on stalls, the student performed two clearing turns to clear the airspace.
Example Sentence 2
Before recovering from a stall, the instructor had the student clear the airspace again.