Plain English Meaning

How much usable energy the engine is producing at a given moment to drive the aircraft forward. More power means the engine is working harder and producing more thrust through the propeller or jet exhaust.

Full Definition

The rate at which an aircraft engine performs work, typically expressed in horsepower for piston engines or as a percentage of rated thrust for turbine engines. It is the energy output the engine delivers to turn the propeller or produce thrust, and it is controlled primarily by the throttle and, where applicable, the mixture and propeller controls.

Context Anchor

Seen in performance, , , , and thrust discussions.