CFIT
Transportation & Travel abbreviation · Aviation
| Stands for | Controlled flight into terrain |
|---|---|
| Categories | Transportation & Travel |
CFIT stands for Controlled flight into terrain, an aviation abbreviation.
Accident in which an airworthy aircraft under pilot control is unintentionally flown into the ground, water or an obstacle, usually because the crew lost awareness of terrain in poor visibility or darkness. CFIT was long a leading cause of airline fatalities.
Example: The investigation classified the crash as CFIT: the crew descended below minimums while searching for the runway.
Usage notes
Pronounced "SEE-fit." Terrain awareness systems such as EGPWS and approaches with vertical guidance have sharply reduced CFIT among airlines, though it remains a major killer in general aviation and helicopter operations. Loss of control in flight (LOC-I) now accounts for the most airline accident deaths.
Related abbreviations
More aviation abbreviations
- BFR – Biennial flight review
- BVLOS – Beyond visual line of sight
- CASM – Cost per available seat mile
- CAVOK – Ceiling and visibility OK
- CFI – Certified flight instructor
- CFII – Certified flight instructor - instrument
- CPDLC – Controller-pilot data link communications
- CPL – Commercial pilot license
- CRM – Crew resource management
- CTAF – Common traffic advisory frequency
- CVR – Cockpit voice recorder
- DA – Decision altitude