Definition
An alternating current (AC) electric motor in which the rotor turns because of a magnetic field induced in it by the stator windings, rather than by direct electrical connection to the rotor. The rotating magnetic field produced by the stator drags the rotor along with it, with the rotor always turning slightly slower than the field — a difference called slip.
Plain English
An AC motor where the spinning part is turned by a magnetic field rather than by wires connected to it. The stationary outer windings create a moving magnetic field, and that field pulls the inner rotor around with it.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical system and maintenance discussions, especially for equipment such as blowers, pumps, and other electrically driven accessories.
Derivation
From Latin inducere, 'to lead in.' The motor is called induction because the current that drives the rotor is induced (led into it) by the magnetic field of the stator, not delivered through wires or brushes.
Why Pilots Care
Powers essential gyroscopic flight instruments that remain reliable even when the aircraft electrical system experiences minor voltage fluctuations.
Intuition Check
Do not confuse an induction motor with the engine induction system. Here, induction means electrical current being produced in part of a motor by magnetism.
Example Sentence 1
The aircraft's AC-powered fuel boost pump uses an induction motor, which is why it has no brushes to inspect.
Example Sentence 2
During preflight, the pilot verified that the turn coordinator's induction motor reached operating RPM before taxiing for an IFR departure.