Definition
In aviation usage, refers to a planned or designated course of action, route, altitude, runway, or destination — what the pilot or controller has decided will be done, as distinct from what is currently being done or what could be done.
Plain English
What you are planning to do, fly, or land on — the chosen plan, not just one option among many.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight planning, pilot-controller communication, and FAA descriptions of planned aircraft actions or routes.
Derivation
From Latin intendere, 'to stretch toward' or 'to direct one's attention or aim toward.' In aviation, it carries that same sense of being aimed at a specific outcome — the pilot has directed the flight toward a particular runway, route, or altitude.
Why Pilots Care
Following the intended path maintains traffic separation, avoids terrain or obstacles, and ensures compliance with ATC clearances and regulations.
Intuition Check
Do not read “intended” as “approved” or “already happening.” In aviation, it means planned or expected; approval must come from the actual clearance or instruction.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot reported the intended landing runway as 09 Left during the approach briefing.
Example Sentence 2
Any change from the intended course requires immediate notification to ATC.