Plain English Meaning
The step-by-step way a pilot works out what to do: notice what's happening, look at the facts, weigh the options, choose one, do it, then check how it turned out.
Full Definition
A systematic mental process by which a pilot identifies a situation, gathers and evaluates relevant information, considers alternative courses of action, selects one, and acts on it -- then reviews the outcome and adjusts as needed. In aviation training, it is taught as a structured skill rather than left to instinct, because flight decisions often must be made quickly with incomplete information and significant consequences.
Context Anchor
Used in pilot training, preflight planning, and in-flight situations where a pilot must choose what to do next.