Plain English Meaning

An engine that uses its own exhaust to pack more air into the cylinders, so it keeps making strong power even when flying high where the air is thin.

Full Definition

Describes a piston engine equipped with a turbocharger — a device that uses the engine's exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which in turn drives a compressor that forces additional air into the engine's intake. This restores or boosts intake air density, allowing the engine to maintain rated power at higher altitudes where the surrounding air is thinner.

Context Anchor

Seen in engine operation and , especially when a must manage power changes and let the engine cool properly after .