Definition
The actual three-dimensional tracks an aircraft follows through the air, described by its lateral course over the ground, its vertical profile (climbs, level segments, and descents), and its position over time.
Plain English
The route an aircraft actually flies through the sky — where it goes side-to-side, how high it is, and when it climbs or descends along the way.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument procedure and NextGen discussions about using more precise, repeatable routes for aircraft.
Derivation
A simple compound of 'flight' and 'path.' Worth noting because in aviation 'path' includes the vertical dimension, not just the line on a map — a flightpath has shape in three dimensions.
Why Pilots Care
Precise flightpaths enable shorter routes, lower fuel burn, reduced emissions, and tighter but safer aircraft spacing in busy airspace.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a flightpath as only a line drawn on a map. In aviation, a flightpath includes the aircraft's vertical movement as well as its path across the ground.
Example Sentence 1
RNAV procedures allow controllers to assign more direct flightpaths between airports, saving time and fuel.
Example Sentence 2
Controllers can assign tighter flightpaths when aircraft are equipped with precise navigation systems.