Definition
A propeller blade angle setting in which the blades bite into the oncoming air to produce thrust that pulls or pushes the airplane forward. In the context of turboprop and constant-speed propeller systems, forward pitch refers to all blade angles on the positive side of the flat (zero-thrust) position, as opposed to reverse pitch or the beta range used on the ground.
Plain English
The normal direction the propeller blades are angled when the airplane is flying. The blades are tilted so they pull the airplane forward through the air.
Context Anchor
Seen in turboprop and controllable-propeller discussions, especially when comparing normal propeller operation with beta range or reverse thrust.
Derivation
"Pitch" here comes from the same idea as the pitch of a screw — how far it would advance through a solid in one turn. A propeller in forward pitch is angled to "screw" the airplane forward through the air.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures pilots recognize the normal operating range and avoid unintended entry into reverse thrust on the ground or in flight.
Intuition Check
Do not read pitch here as nose attitude or sound. In this context, pitch means the angle of the propeller blades, and forward means that angle is producing normal forward thrust.
Example Sentence 1
During takeoff, climb, and cruise, the propeller stays in forward pitch to produce thrust that moves the airplane ahead.
Example Sentence 2
Moving the power lever aft of the detent takes the blades out of forward pitch and into the beta range.