Definition
A waypoint that requires the aircraft to pass directly over the point before initiating any turn to the next leg of the route. The turn is not anticipated; it begins only after the waypoint has been crossed.
Plain English
A point on your route that you must fly straight over the top of before you start turning toward the next point.
Context Anchor
Seen on GPS/RNAV routes, instrument procedures, and navigation charts when the route requires the aircraft to pass over a specific point before changing direction.
Derivation
“Waypoint” means a point along the way of travel. “Fly-over” is used in its direct aviation sense: the aircraft is expected to pass over that point, not just near it or around it.
Why Pilots Care
Compliance ensures the aircraft follows the protected path; turning early can violate procedure limits or airspace.
Analogy
It is like being told to walk to a cone before turning left. You should not round the corner early; you go to the cone first, then make the turn.
Intuition Check
Do not assume a Fly-OVER Waypoint works like a normal corner on a route. The key idea is: cross the waypoint first, then turn.
Example Sentence 1
The missed approach holding fix is depicted as a fly-over waypoint, so the aircraft must cross it before beginning the turn outbound.
Example Sentence 2
At a fly-over waypoint the navigation system waits until the aircraft has passed overhead before commanding the next turn.