Definition
Deliberate changes to engine output made by the pilot, typically by moving the throttle (or power lever) to increase or decrease thrust or power as required by the flight situation. In the context of upset recovery, power adjustments are coordinated with control inputs to manage airspeed, pitch attitude, and energy state without aggravating the upset.
Plain English
Changing how much power the engine is producing by moving the throttle, in order to speed up, slow down, or help the airplane do what you need it to do.
Context Anchor
Seen in upset prevention and recovery training, approach and landing practice, climb and descent procedures, and any situation where the pilot changes power to control the airplane.
Why Pilots Care
Proper timing of power changes prevents excessive airspeed buildup or stall during recovery and reduces the risk of structural overload or loss of control.
Intuition Check
Do not read “power adjustments” as casual or constant throttle movement. In this context, it means deliberate engine-power changes made for a specific control reason.
Example Sentence 1
During the nose-low recovery, the pilot made smooth power adjustments to prevent overspeeding the airframe.
Example Sentence 2
During a nose-high recovery the pilot uses power adjustments to increase thrust while lowering the nose to regain airspeed.