Definition
On the attitude indicator, a pitch displacement equal to twice the spacing between the horizon line and the first reference bar above or below it. It is used as a standardized pitch reference during instrument takeoff and initial climb, providing a consistent nose-up attitude appropriate for most light aircraft to establish a positive climb after liftoff.
Plain English
It means raising the nose on the attitude indicator by two of the small marked steps above the horizon line. Pilots use this as a steady, repeatable amount of nose-up attitude when starting to climb after takeoff in instrument conditions.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument takeoff procedures, when the pilot uses the attitude indicator instead of outside visual references to set the initial climb attitude.
Derivation
The term comes from the pitch reference bars (also called pitch lines or chevrons) marked on the attitude indicator at fixed intervals above and below the horizon line. 'Two bar width' simply means the displacement equal to two of those interval spacings, used as a measurable, repeatable pitch target.
Why Pilots Care
Prompts an immediate small heading correction to prevent growing deviation from the runway centerline.
Grounding Statement
Picture the attitude indicator: the small airplane symbol is held a short, measured distance above the horizon line to show a nose-up attitude.
Intuition Check
Do not read “two bar width” as two degrees, two inches, or a fixed measurement for every instrument. It is a visual reference based on the bar shown on that attitude indicator.
Example Sentence 1
After liftoff during the instrument takeoff, the pilot smoothly raised the nose to a two bar width pitch attitude and held it until reaching climb speed.
Example Sentence 2
Staying inside one bar width keeps the aircraft aligned for a safe transition to instruments after liftoff.