Aeronautical Terms beginning with P

Pneumatic

Operation by the use of compressed air.

Pneumatic Systems

The power system in an aircraft used for operating such items as landing gear, brakes, and wing flaps with compressed air as the operating fluid.

Pressure demand oxygen system

A demand oxygen system that supplies 100 percent oxygen at sufficient pressure above the altitude where normal breathing is adequate. Also referred to as a pressure breathing system.

Principal Operations Inspector (POI)

Scheduled air carriers and operators for compensation or hire are assigned a principal operations inspector (POI) who works directly with the company and coordinates FAA operating approval.

Profile Descent

An uninterrupted descent (except where level flight is required for speed adjustment; e.g., 250 knots at 10,000 feet MSL) from cruising altitude/level to interception of a glideslope or to a minimum altitude specified for the initial or intermediate approach segment of a nonprecision instrument approach. The profile descent normally terminates at the approach gate or where the glideslope or other appropriate minimum altitude is intercepted.