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LAHSO (Land and Hold Short Operations)	LAHSO is an air traffic control procedure where aircraft are instructed to land and stop before reaching an intersecting runway or taxiway. It enhances airport efficiency and traffic flow, requiring pilots to ensure adequate braking performance and compliance with clearance instructions for safety.
Laminar Flow	Laminar flow refers to the smooth, streamlined movement of air over an aircraft surface. It reduces drag and improves aerodynamic efficiency. Designers aim to maintain laminar flow on wings and fuselage to optimize performance, especially for high-speed and fuel-efficient aircraft.
Landing Gear	The landing gear supports an aircraft during ground operations, takeoff, and landing. It can be fixed or retractable, consisting of wheels, struts, and shock absorbers. Proper maintenance ensures the safety and reliability of this critical system.
Landing Lights	Landing lights are high-intensity lights mounted on aircraft to illuminate the runway during landing and takeoff. They enhance visibility for pilots and ground personnel, contributing to safer operations in low-light conditions.
Landing Roll	Landing roll is the distance an aircraft travels on the runway after touchdown until it comes to a complete stop. Factors such as runway conditions, braking efficiency, and wind impact landing roll, requiring pilots to adjust techniques for safe landings.
Landing Weight	Landing weight is the total weight of an aircraft at the time of landing, including fuel, passengers, cargo, and crew. Exceeding the maximum landing weight can strain landing gear and structural components, requiring careful fuel and payload management.
Lanyard (Safety Equipment)	A lanyard is a strap or cord used to secure safety equipment, such as emergency beacons, life vests, or oxygen masks, to prevent loss or displacement during turbulence or emergencies. It enhances safety by keeping essential items within reach.
Lap Joint (Aircraft Structure)	A lap joint is a structural design in which two overlapping materials are fastened together, commonly used in aircraft skin panels. It provides strength and flexibility while distributing loads evenly to prevent stress fractures or fatigue.
Laser Gyro	A laser gyro is a navigation instrument that uses laser beams to detect angular movement. It provides precise attitude and heading information, improving aircraft navigation accuracy, particularly in GPS-denied environments.
Latent Heat in Aviation	Latent heat refers to the heat energy absorbed or released during phase changes, such as water vapor condensing into ice. Understanding latent heat is critical for aviation meteorology and the prevention of icing on wings or engines.
Latitude	Latitude is a geographic coordinate that specifies an aircraft's position north or south of the equator. It is essential for navigation, enabling pilots to determine their exact location and plot routes accurately on a map.
Layover	A layover is a scheduled stop between connecting flights, allowing passengers and crew to rest or transfer. Layovers vary in duration and may include overnight stays, depending on the airline schedule and destination.
Leading Edge	The leading edge is the front part of an aircraft’s wing or airfoil that first contacts airflow. Its design affects lift generation, drag reduction, and overall aerodynamic performance, particularly during takeoff and landing.
Life Raft	A life raft is an emergency flotation device carried on aircraft flying over water. It provides safety for passengers and crew during ditching scenarios, equipped with survival supplies such as flares, water, and first aid kits.
Lift	Lift is the aerodynamic force that opposes an aircraft’s weight, enabling it to remain airborne. Generated by the wings, lift depends on airspeed, wing shape, and angle of attack. Pilots balance lift with other forces for stable flight.
Lift-to-Drag Ratio	The lift-to-drag ratio measures an aircraft’s aerodynamic efficiency, comparing lift generated to drag encountered. A higher ratio indicates better performance, essential for fuel economy and extended range.
Lightning Protection	Lightning protection in aircraft involves shielding systems that prevent damage from lightning strikes. Components such as static wicks, conductive coatings, and grounding paths ensure electrical surges are safely dispersed, maintaining flight safety.
Lighter-Than-Air Aircraft	Lighter-than-air aircraft, such as balloons and airships, use buoyant gases like helium or hot air to achieve flight. These aircraft are used for recreational purposes, scientific exploration, and surveillance, offering unique operational advantages.
Line Maintenance	Line maintenance involves routine aircraft inspections, repairs, and servicing conducted between flights. It ensures the aircraft’s readiness and safety, focusing on quick turnaround times while adhering to regulatory standards.
Localizer (ILS Component)	A localizer is a component of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) that provides lateral guidance for aircraft during an approach. It transmits radio signals, helping pilots align with the runway centerline in low-visibility conditions.
Lockheed Orlando Radar Cross Section Range (RCSR)	The Lockheed Orlando Radar Cross Section Range (N28°22'10.16" W81°04'34.22") is a highly secretive Lockheed Martin facility hidden off the highway between Orlando and Cape Canaveral. Operated by Skunk Works, the site supports black project development through advanced radar signature testing. Concealed emitters, pylons, and sensors evaluate low-observable technologies, playing a critical role in stealth aircraft evolution and clandestine aerospace operations.
Logbook (Aircraft and Pilot)	A logbook records an aircraft’s maintenance history, flights, and performance, as well as a pilot’s flight hours and qualifications. It is a regulatory requirement and ensures compliance with aviation safety standards.
Longitudinal Axis	The longitudinal axis is the imaginary line running from the aircraft’s nose to its tail. Movement around this axis, known as roll, is controlled by ailerons and affects the aircraft’s lateral stability and banking during turns.
Loop Maneuver	A loop is an aerobatic maneuver in which an aircraft completes a vertical circular flight path. It requires precise control of pitch and throttle to maintain lift and avoid stalling, demonstrating the aircraft’s agility.
LORAN (Long-Range Navigation)	LORAN is a terrestrial navigation system that uses radio signals from ground stations to determine an aircraft’s position. Though largely replaced by GPS, it was widely used in earlier aviation for overwater and remote area navigation.
Low-Altitude Airspace	Low-altitude airspace refers to controlled or uncontrolled airspace below a specified altitude, typically under 18,000 feet. It is used by general aviation, helicopters, and small aircraft for local operations and training flights.
Low-Cost Carrier (LCC)	A low-cost carrier is an airline offering affordable fares by minimizing operational costs. These airlines often use single aircraft types, charge for optional services, and focus on point-to-point routes to maximize efficiency.
Low-Drag Design	Low-drag design refers to aircraft engineering techniques that minimize aerodynamic resistance, improving fuel efficiency and speed. Features include streamlined shapes, smooth surfaces, and retractable landing gear to reduce turbulence.
Low-Level Wind Shear	Low-level wind shear involves sudden changes in wind speed or direction near the ground. It poses risks during takeoff and landing, requiring pilots to remain vigilant and adjust techniques to maintain control.
Luggage Compartment	The luggage compartment, also called the cargo hold, is a designated area in the aircraft for storing passengers’ baggage. It is pressurized and sometimes climate-controlled to ensure safety and comfort for transported items.
Luxembourg Flight Information Region (LFIR)	The Luxembourg Flight Information Region manages air traffic over Luxembourg’s airspace. It ensures safety and coordination for commercial, military, and general aviation operations within its boundaries.