Definition
A turn in which the change in heading is controlled by reference to a clock or timing device rather than to the heading indicator, using a known rate of turn (typically standard rate, 3 degrees per second) so that a desired number of degrees of turn is achieved over a calculated number of seconds.
Plain English
A turn where you use a watch or timer instead of the heading indicator to know when to stop turning. You hold a steady rate of turn and time it, knowing how many seconds it takes to turn through the heading change you want.
Context Anchor
Used in instrument flying, especially when practicing or using backup methods to change heading without relying only on the heading indicator.
Why Pilots Care
Provides a reliable method to change heading accurately when primary directional instruments are unavailable.
Analogy
It is like turning a faucet for a known number of seconds to fill a cup to about the right level. The flow rate matters, and the time matters.
Intuition Check
Do not read “timed” as simply “using a stopwatch during a turn.” In this context, the time is the method for controlling how many degrees of heading change you make.
Example Sentence 1
With the heading indicator showing erratic readings, the pilot used a timed turn to roll out on the new heading.
Example Sentence 2
During the partial-panel approach, the instructor called for a timed turn to intercept the final approach course.