Definition
An instrument departure instruction directing the pilot to maintain runway heading after takeoff while climbing to a specified altitude before making any turn. The track flown is the extended centerline of the departure runway, with no heading change permitted until the published altitude or fix is reached.
Plain English
After takeoff, keep flying in the same direction as the runway and just go up. Do not turn until you reach the altitude or point the procedure tells you to.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach profile views, missed approach instructions, and departure instructions after takeoff.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures precise obstacle clearance and compliance with published procedures during critical phases of flight.
Grounding Statement
Picture the aircraft leaving the runway area and continuing forward while gaining altitude until the published instructions say what to do next.
Intuition Check
Do not read “straight ahead” as “turn when it seems reasonable” or “head generally toward the next place.” It means continue the climb without turning until the chart or air traffic control gives the next action.
Example Sentence 1
The missed approach procedure reads: climb straight ahead to 2,000 feet, then turn right direct to the holding fix.
Example Sentence 2
The departure procedure required the aircraft to climb straight ahead until passing the 5-mile fix.