midflight

Midflight is the portion of an aircraft's journey that occurs after takeoff and before landing. It encompasses climb, cruise, and descent phases, from the time the aircraft has cleared the runway until the aircraft begins its final approach for landing. In commercial aviation, midflight is usually the longest segment of a flight, during which the aircraft maintains cruising altitude and speed, optimizes fuel efficiency, and monitors flight management systems and weather data.

During midflight, pilots monitor instruments, manage navigation, and coordinate with air traffic control as the aircraft transitions through airspace and weather systems. The autopilot and flight management system often handle much of the flight control and navigation, with pilots ready to intervene for routing changes, turbulence avoidance, or operational considerations such as fuel management and engine performance.

Weather, turbulence, fuel status, engine indications, and cabin considerations influence midflight operations. Contingencies can include holding patterns, altitude changes, diversion to alternate airports, or in rare cases emergency procedures. In military contexts, midflight can also refer to in-flight refueling or other operations conducted while airborne.

End of midflight begins with the initiation of the final approach and landing sequencing.