Definition
A slow, smooth transition from the final descent to a level or near-level path just above the runway during landing, accomplished by gradually increasing back pressure on the elevator control to reduce the rate of descent and bleed off airspeed so the airplane settles onto the runway in a landing attitude.
Plain English
The gentle pull-back on the controls just before touchdown that levels the airplane out a few feet above the runway, slows it down, and lets it settle softly onto the wheels.
Context Anchor
Encountered during landing practice, especially in the last few seconds before the wheels touch the runway.
Derivation
Roundout' describes literally rounding out the descent path -- changing it from a downward line into a curve that levels off. 'Flare' comes from the same word used for a flame spreading outward; here it describes the airplane's nose rising and the flight path opening out from a descent into level flight.
Why Pilots Care
A properly timed roundout prevents hard landings, bounces, propeller strikes, and runway overruns.
Grounding Statement
Picture the airplane descending toward the runway, then smoothly changing to a nearly level path a few feet above it before settling down.
Intuition Check
“Flare” does not mean a flame or emergency signal here. In landing, it means the controlled nose-up transition just before touchdown.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor reminded her to begin the roundout when the runway appeared to broaden in her peripheral vision, about ten to twenty feet above the ground.
Example Sentence 2
A late flare caused the main wheels to touch down hard and the airplane bounced.