Plain English Meaning

A pilot who already knows how to fly is learning to fly something new — a different airplane, a different class of aircraft, or a different kind of flying — and is being trained to operate it safely.

Full Definition

A certificated pilot who is moving from one aircraft, category, class, or type of flying to another, and who must learn the specific procedures, performance characteristics, and handling qualities of the new operation. The transitioning pilot already holds airman privileges but is adapting existing skills and knowledge to an unfamiliar aircraft or operational environment.

Context Anchor

Used in flight training discussions when an instructor is helping an already-trained pilot adapt to a new aircraft or a new kind of flying.