Definition
The engine power setting used during the cruise phase of flight, established after climb is complete and selected to deliver a sustained, fuel-efficient airspeed at the chosen altitude. It is normally set per the aircraft's Pilot's Operating Handbook as a percentage of maximum continuous power (commonly 55%–75%) and held steady to maintain straight-and-level flight at a predictable speed and fuel burn.
Plain English
The throttle setting you use once you've leveled off and are flying along to your destination. It's lower than climb power but enough to keep you moving at a steady speed without burning fuel too fast.
Context Anchor
Seen when setting power during straight-and-level flight, especially after leveling off from a climb or descent during instrument flying.
Derivation
From the Dutch kruisen, 'to cross,' originally a sailing term for moving steadily across an area of water. In aviation it carries the same sense: a steady, sustained pace between the climb out and the descent in.
Why Pilots Care
Using the correct cruising power maintains stable flight, optimizes fuel consumption, and prevents unintended climbs or descents in instrument conditions.
Intuition Check
Cruising power does not mean one exact setting that is the same for every airplane. It means the power setting appropriate for steady, level cruise in that airplane under those conditions.
Example Sentence 1
After leveling off at 6,500 feet, she reduced the throttle to cruising power and trimmed for level flight.
Example Sentence 2
During the enroute segment, cruising power was fine-tuned to compensate for a headwind while staying level.