Definition
Structured training a pilot completes when moving to an aircraft that has performance, systems, or handling characteristics significantly different from those they are already qualified to fly. It covers the new aircraft's systems, procedures, limitations, and flight characteristics through ground instruction and flight instruction, with the goal of building competence and safety in the new type before flying it as pilot in command.
Plain English
The training a pilot does when stepping up or across to a different kind of airplane than they are used to flying. It teaches them how the new airplane works, how it handles, and how to operate it safely.
Context Anchor
You see this term when a pilot is moving from one airplane or airplane setup to another, such as from a training airplane to a faster, heavier, or more complex airplane.
Derivation
From Latin transire, meaning 'to go across.' Transition training is the bridge that takes a pilot across from one type of aircraft to another.
Why Pilots Care
It satisfies FAA endorsement and rating requirements while ensuring the pilot can safely handle the new aircraft's unique systems and flight characteristics.
Intuition Check
Transition training does not mean the pilot is learning to fly from the beginning. It means the pilot already flies, but is learning the important differences in a new airplane or operating environment.
Example Sentence 1
After earning his private certificate in a Cessna 172, she completed transition training before flying the Cirrus SR22.
Example Sentence 2
After finishing transition training from the Cessna 172 to the Piper Seminole, the student was ready for the multi-engine checkride.