Definition
A descent flown with the engine producing some power rather than at idle, allowing the pilot to control the rate of descent and airspeed while keeping the engine warm and the airplane in a stable, controllable configuration.
Plain English
Coming down with the throttle pulled back partway, not all the way to idle. The engine is still doing some work, which gives a smoother, more controlled descent.
Context Anchor
Used during normal descents from cruise, practice descents, and when setting up before entering the traffic pattern.
Why Pilots Care
Provides a stable descent profile that keeps the engine ready for immediate power increases if needed for go-arounds or obstacle clearance.
Grounding Statement
Picture easing the throttle back until the airplane starts down, while keeping enough power in to make the descent controlled and smooth.
Intuition Check
Partial power does not mean the engine is off or at idle. It means some power is still being used while the airplane descends.
Example Sentence 1
Approaching the destination, the pilot began a partial power descent at 500 feet per minute to arrive at pattern altitude on schedule.
Example Sentence 2
During the approach briefing, the instructor called for a partial power descent to stay on the desired glidepath without using full idle.