AGL
Above Ground Level
Height above the surface directly below you.
MSL
Mean Sea Level
An altitude/elevation reference used on aviation charts.
ATC
Air Traffic Control
The system/services that manage and separate air traffic.
CTAF
Common Traffic Advisory Frequency
A frequency used for traffic advisories at many non-towered airports.
ATIS
Automatic Terminal Information Service
Recorded routine airport/weather information where available.
LAANC
Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability
FAA-supported system used for eligible controlled-airspace authorizations.
NOTAM
Notice to Air Missions
Time-sensitive aeronautical information about hazards, restrictions or changes.
TFR
Temporary Flight Restriction
A temporary restriction that may limit or prohibit UAS operations in an area.
VLOS
Visual Line of Sight
The visual-contact requirement that keeps the aircraft observable as required by the operating rule.
VO
Visual Observer
A person who assists the remote PIC with seeing the aircraft and hazards when used.
RPIC
Remote Pilot in Command
The person with final authority and responsibility for the small UAS operation.
sUAS
Small Unmanned Aircraft System
The aircraft plus associated elements used to operate it.
UAG
Unmanned Aircraft General — Small
The knowledge-test designation used for the initial Part 107 test.
FTN
FAA Tracking Number
The number used to identify an applicant through FAA testing/certification systems.
IACRA
Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application
FAA system used in the airman certification application process.
METAR
Aviation routine weather report
Observed weather at or near an airport.
TAF
Terminal Aerodrome Forecast
Forecast aviation weather for a terminal/airport area.
CRM
Crew Resource Management
Using communication, people and available resources effectively to reduce operational risk.
PIC
Pilot in Command
A general aviation term for the person with final operational authority; Part 107 uses remote PIC/RPIC.
COI
Certificate of Insurance
A document showing insurance coverage information; clients may request one for commercial work.
Remote ID
Remote Identification
FAA-required broadcast identification/location information for operations subject to the Remote ID rule.
Study tip: learn what each abbreviation means in context instead of memorizing a long list by itself. When you see one in a chart or practice question, say the full phrase before answering.