Definition 1 of 2
Definition
A training condition in which a pilot wears a view-limiting device (commonly called a hood) that blocks all outside visual references, forcing the pilot to control the aircraft solely by reference to the flight instruments. Used during instrument training and instrument proficiency checks while the aircraft is actually flown in visual conditions, with a safety pilot maintaining outside lookout.
Plain English
Flying while wearing a visor that blocks your view outside, so you have to fly using only the cockpit instruments. Another pilot watches outside for traffic while you practise.
Context Anchor
You will hear this during instrument training, flight reviews, logbook discussions, and practice flights where outside visual references are intentionally blocked.
Derivation
The 'hood' refers to the physical view-limiting device worn over the head or eyes, shaped like a visor or hood that restricts vision to the instrument panel only. 'Under the hood' became shorthand for flying in that condition.
Why Pilots Care
Develops the ability to maintain control and navigate without visual cues, which is required for the instrument rating and essential for safe flight in low visibility.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as being under an engine cover or under part of the airplane. In this context, it means the pilot’s outside view is intentionally blocked for instrument practice.
Example Sentence 1
The student logged 1.2 hours under the hood while practising holding patterns with her instructor acting as safety pilot.
Example Sentence 2
After clearing the hood, the pilot was surprised to see they had drifted off course during the turn.