Wondering about the definition of wheels up? Keep reading to learn the meaning of wheels up, see some examples, and get a better understanding of this travel glossary term!
What Does Wheels Up Mean?
Wheels up is a term in airline parlance for the time the aircraft becomes airborne; literally, when the wheels lift up from the runway.
However, another definition for wheels up time refers to when an aviation oversight body is expected to give takeoff clearance.
One other meaning of wheels up could be when a plane is already in the air and the time it retracts its landing gear into its body.
More on Wheels Up
Colloquially speaking, passengers may use the term wheels up to refer to takeoff.
Today, Wheels Up is also a private jet company based in New York City, a rival to NetJets.
Related Reads:
- Actual Time of Arrival (ATA) – Glossary Definition
- Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) – Glossary Definition
- 25+ Made-Up Travel Words: Newly-Minted Trip- & Place-Related Terms
- 30+ Airport & Flight Terms to Know
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