Definition
Engine-driven electrical machines that convert mechanical energy from the engine into direct current (DC) electrical power, supplying the aircraft's electrical system and recharging the battery during flight.
Plain English
Devices on the engine that produce electricity for the airplane while the engine is running. They power things like radios, lights, and instruments, and keep the battery charged.
Context Anchor
After engine start, a pilot checks the aircraft’s electrical indications to confirm the generators are online and supplying power normally.
Derivation
From the Latin generare, meaning 'to bring forth' or 'to produce.' A generator literally produces electrical energy from mechanical motion.
Why Pilots Care
Generator output confirms the aircraft has reliable electrical power for navigation and communication systems before takeoff.
Intuition Check
Do not read generators as just “things that create something” in a general sense. In this checklist context, generators are specific aircraft electrical power sources that should show normal operation after the engine is started.
Example Sentence 1
After engine start, the pilot checked that the generator was online and showing a positive charge on the ammeter.
Example Sentence 2
A failed generator requires the pilot to reduce electrical load and land as soon as practical.