Definition
On a GPS unit, a blinking on-screen marker that highlights the data field or menu item currently selected for editing or selection by the pilot. The flashing indicates that any input from the control knobs or keys will act on that field.
Plain English
The blinking box or highlight on the GPS screen that shows you which item you are about to change or pick.
Context Anchor
Seen while using a panel-mounted GPS or other navigation unit, such as when selecting the nearest airport function or editing an airport identifier.
Derivation
Cursor comes from a Latin word meaning “runner.” On a screen, the cursor “runs” or moves from place to place to show where your next action will happen. Flashing means blinking on and off so your eye can find it quickly.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents the pilot from accidentally selecting the wrong airport or data field by making the active choice immediately visible.
Analogy
It is like the blinking line in a text message box. Wherever that blinking line is, that is where the next letter or action will go.
Intuition Check
Do not read “flashing” as a warning by itself here. In this context, the blinking is mainly a pointer that shows the active selection or entry position on the display.
Example Sentence 1
He turned the outer knob until the flashing cursor moved to the destination airport field, then entered the identifier.
Example Sentence 2
With the flashing cursor on the second airport in the list, the pilot confirmed the identifier and runway information before proceeding.