What does "PAPI" stand for in aviation?

PAPI stands for Precision Approach Path Indicator. This system is used at airports to provide visual guidance to pilots during the approach to landing. The PAPI consists of a series of lights positioned adjacent to the runway that indicate whether the aircraft is on the correct glide path. Typically, the lights are arranged in a specific color pattern, with white lights indicating that the aircraft is above the glide path and red lights indicating that it is below. The combination of these lights helps ensure that pilots maintain the appropriate approach angle for a safe landing.

Understanding the function of PAPI is crucial for pilots because it assists in enhancing situational awareness during the critical phase of landing. The other options do not represent established terminology in aviation and do not capture the specific role or functionality of the PAPI system in aiding pilot decision-making and performance.