BTS | Dictionary

Facility: All or any portion of buildings, structures, sites, complexes, equipment, roads, walks, passageways, parking lots, or other real or personal property, including the site where the building, property, structure, or equipment is located. (49CFR37)

Facing Movement: The movement of a train over the points of a switch which face in a direction opposite to that in which the train is moving. (49CFR236)

Facing Point Lock Plunger: [with respect to rail operations] That part of a facing point lock which secures the lock rod to the plunger stand when the switch is locked. (49CFR236)

Facing Point Switch: [with respect to rail operations] A switch, the points of which face traffic approaching in the direction for which the track is signaled. (49CFR236)

Factory Investigative Audit: The presence of the Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection (OCMI) and other Coast Guard personnel at a manufacturing facility to gather information and evidence to prove or disprove violations of the statutes, or to investigate potential defects which may present substantial risks of personal injury. (USCG1)

FADE: FAA Airline Data Exchange (FAA17)

FAF: Final Approach Fix (FAA4) (FAA17)

Fahrenheit: A temperature scale on which the boiling point of water is at 212 degrees above zero on the scale and the freezing point is at 32 degrees above zero at standard atmospheric pressure. (DOE5)

Fair Market Value: The value of a vehicle as stated by the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) or other sale publication. For vehicles under the 3-year replacement cycle, Fair Market Value is the average loan indicated in the appropriate NADA publication. (GSA2)

Fairly Close: As close to the shore, dike, or light as practicable (approximately 150 feet off). (TNDOT1)

FAK: Freight All Kinds (USTTA1)

Fallen Skier: A person who has fallen off their water skies. (USCG2).

Falling River: The river condition when gage readings are decreasing day by day. (TNDOT1)

FAME: Freeway and Arterial Management Effort (FHWA15)

FANS: Future Air Navigation System (FAA17)

FAPA: Future Airline Pilots of America (BTS)

FAR: Federal Aviation Regulation (FAA2) (FAA3) (FAA6) (FAA7) (FAA19) (FAA1)

Fare: The required payment for a ride on a public transportation vehicle. It may be paid by any acceptable means, for example, cash, token, ticket, transfer, farecard, voucher, or pass or user fee. (TRB1)

FARE: Uniform Financial Accounting and Reporting Elements (FTA3)

Fare Evasion: The unlawful use of transit facilities by riding without paying the applicable fare. (FTA1)

Fare Recovery Ratio: The ratio of fare revenue to operating expenses. (TRB1)

Farm Vehicle Driver: A person who drives only a motor vehicle that is 1) Controlled and operated by a farmer as a private motor carrier of property; 2) Being used to transport either agricultural products, or farm machinery, farm supplies, or both, to or from a farm; 3) Not being used in the operation of a for-hire motor carrier; 4) Not carrying hazardous materials of a type or quantity that requires the vehicle to be placarded in accordance with 49 CFR 177.823 and 5) Being used within 150 air-miles of the farmer's farm. (49CFR390)

Farm-To-Market Agricultural Transportation: The operation of a motor vehicle controlled and operated by a farmer who: 1) Is a private motor carrier of property; 2) Is using the vehicle to transport agricultural products from a farm owned by the farmer, or to transport farm machinery or farm supplies to or from a farm owned by the farmer; and 3) Is not using the vehicle to transport hazardous materials of a type or quantity that require the vehicle to be placarded in accordance with 49 CFR 177.823. (49CFR390)

FARS: Fatal Accident Reporting System (NHTSA5)

FAS: Free Alongside Ship (DOE3) (DOE8)

FAST: Final Approach Spacing Tool (FAA17) (FAA19)

Fast File: A system whereby a pilot files a flight plan via telephone that is tape recorded and then transcribed for transmission to the appropriate air traffic facility. Locations having a fast file capability are contained in the Airport/Facility Directory. (FAA4)

FAST-TRAC: Faster and Safer Travel/Traffic Routing and Advanced Control (FHWA15)

Fatal Accident: See also Fatality.

Fatal Accident: 1) A motor vehicle traffic accident resulting in one or more fatal injuries. 2) An accident for which at least one fatality was reported. (FHWA1) (FHWA4) (FHWA5)

Fatal Accident: (See also Fatality) Statistics reported to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) shall conform to the 30-day rule, i.e., a fatality resulting from a highway vehicular accident is to be counted only if death occurs within 30 days of the accident. (FHWA2)

Fatal Accident: An accident that results in one or more deaths within one year. (NSC1)

Fatal Accident Rate: The fatal accident rate is the number of fatal accidents per 100 million vehicle miles of travel. (FHWA5)

Fatal Alcohol Involvement Crash: A fatal crash is alcohol-related or alcohol-involved if either a driver or a non motorist (usually a pedestrian) had a measurable or estimated blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01 grams per deciliter (g/dl) or above. (NHTSA3)

Fatal Crash: A police-reported crash involving a motor vehicle in transport on a trafficway in which at least one person dies within 30 days of the crash. (NHTSA3) (NHTSA4)

Fatal Injury: Any injury which results in death within 7 days of the accident. (FAA2)

Fatal Injury: Any injury which results in death within 30 days of the accident. (FHWA5) (NTSB1) (NTSB2)

Fatal Plus Nonfatal Injury Accidents: The sum of all fatal accidents and nonfatal-injury accidents. (FHWA5)

Fatality: See also Accident, Casualty, Collision, Crash, Derailment, Event, Fatal Accident, Incident, Injury.

Fatality: Death resulting from the failure or escape of gas. (AGA1)

Fatality: Are those 1) Which result from motor vehicle accidents that occurred during the relevant calendar year and 2) Those in which the injured person(s) died within 30 days of the accident. (FHWA2)

Fatality: The death of a person resulting from an injury incurred during railroad operations or resulting from an occupational illness, if death occurs within 365 days of initial diagnosis. (FRA3)

Fatality: A death confirmed within 30 days after an incident which occurs under the collision, derailment, personal casualty, or fire categories. (FTA1)

Fatality: A transit caused death confirmed within 30 days of a transit incident. (FTA2)

Fatality: A death as the result of a crash that involves a motor vehicle in transport on a trafficway and in which at least one person dies within 30 days of the crash. (NHTSA1)

Fatality: For purposes of statistical reporting on transportation safety fatality shall be considered a death due to injuries in a transportation accident or incident that occurs within 30 days of that accident or incident. (OST1)

Fatality Rate: The average number of fatalities which occurred per accident or per one hundred accidents. (FHWA2)

Fatality Rate: The fatality rate is the number of fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of travel. (FHWA5)

Fatality/Injury: Refers to the average number of fatalities and injuries which occurred per one hundred accidents. Frequently used as an index of accident severity. (FHWA4)

FATO: Final Approach and Takeoff Area (OST3)

Fault of Operator: Speeding; overloading; improper loading, not properly seating occupants of boat; no longer lookout; carelessness; failure to heed weather warnings; operating in a congested area; not observing the Rules of the Road; unsafe fueling practices; lack of experience; ignorance of aids to navigation; lack of caution in an unfamiliar area of operation; improper installation or maintenance of hull, machinery or equipment; poor judgment; recklessness; overpowering the boat; panic; proceeding in an unseaworthy craft; operating a motorboat near persons in the water; staring engine with clutch engaged or throttle advanced; irresponsible boat handling such as quick, sharp turns. (USCG2)

FBL: Flight-By-Light (OST3)

FBO: Fixed Base Operator (FAA17)

FBSA: Federal Boating Safety Act of 1971 (USCG1)

FBW: Fly-By-Wire (OST3)

FCI: Functional Capacity Index (NHTSA5)

FCL: Full Container Load (MARAD2)

FCLT: Freeze Calculated Landing Time (FAA4)

FCS: Flight Control System (OST3)

FDAD: Full Digital Arts Display (FAA17)

FDE: Flight Data Entry (FAA8)

FDIO: Flight Data Input Output (FAA7)

Feathered Propeller: A propeller whose blades have been rotated so that the leading and trailing edges are nearly parallel with the aircraft flight path to stop or minimize drag and engine rotation. Normally used to indicate shutdown of a reciprocating or turboprop engine due to malfunction. (FAA4)

Federal Aid Secondary Highway System: This existed prior to the ISTEA [Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act] of 1991 and included rural collector routes. (FHWA5)

Federal Aid Urban Highway System: This existed prior to the ISTEA [Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act] of 1991 and included urban arterial and collector routes, exclusive of urban extensions of the Federal-Aid Primary system. (FHWA5)

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Formerly the Federal Aviation Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration was established by the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 (49 U.S.C. 106) and became a component of the Department of Transportation in 1967 pursuant to the Department of Transportation Act (49 U.S.C. app. 1651 note). The Administration is charged with 1) regulating air commerce in ways that best promote its development and safety and fulfill the requirements of national defense. 2) controlling the use of navigable airspace of the United States and regulating both civil and military operations in such airspace in the interest of safety and efficiency. 3) promoting, encouraging, and developing civil aeronautics. 4) consolidating research and development with respect to air navigation facilities. 5) installing and operating air navigation facilities. 6) developing and operating a common system of air traffic control and navigation for both civil and military aircraft. and 7) developing and implementing programs and regulations to control aircraft noise, sonic boom, and other environmental effects of civil aviation. (OFR1)

Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR): The set of regulatory obligations contained in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations which FAA is charged to enforce in order to promote the safety of civil aviation both domestically and internationally. (FAA1)

Federal Boating Safety Act (FBSA): Enacted by Congress on 10 August 1971, it gave the Coast Guard the authority to establish comprehensive boating safety programs, authorized the establishment of national construction and performance standards for boats and associated equipment and created a more flexible regulatory authority concerning the use of boats and associated equipment. Amended by the Recreational Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Act of 1980 aka The Recreational Boating Fund Act of 1980 (The Biaggi Act) which provided financial assistance, in part through motorboat fuel taxes, for State recreational boating safety programs. Now recodified as Chapter 43 of Title 46, United States Code. (USCG1)

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC): The Federal agency with jurisdiction over interstate electricity sales, wholesale electric rates, hydroelectric licensing, natural gas pricing, oil pipeline rates, and gas pipeline certification. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is an independent regulatory agency within the Department of Energy and is the successor to the Federal Power Commission. (DOE1) (DOE5)

Federal Hazardous Material Transportation Law: 49 U.S.C. 5101 et seq. (49CFR171)

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): Became a component of the Department of Transportation in 1967 pursuant to the Department of Transportation Act (49 U.S.C. app. 1651 note). It administers the highway transportation programs of the Department of Transportation under pertinent legislation and the provisions of law cited in section 6a) of the act (49 U.S.C. 104) The Administration encompasses highway transportation in its broadest scope seeking to coordinate highways with other modes of transportation to achieve the most effective balance of transportation systems and facilities under cohesive Federal transportation policies pursuant to the act. The Administration administers the Federal-Aid Highway Program; is responsible for several highway-related safety programs; is authorized to establish and maintain a National Network for trucks; administers a coordinated Federal lands program; coordinates varied research, development and technology transfer activities; supports and participates in efforts to find research and technology abroad; plus a few additional programs. (OFR1)

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR): The regulations are contained in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Chapter III, Subchapter B. (FHWA2) (FHWA4)

Federal Power Act: Enacted in 1920, and amended in 1935, the Act consists of three parts. The first part incorporated the Federal Water Power Act administered by the former Federal Power Commission, whose activities were confined almost entirely to licensing non-Federal hydroelectric projects. Parts II and III were added with the passage of the Public Utility Act. These parts extended the Act's jurisdiction to include regulating the interstate transmission of electrical energy and rates for its sale as wholesale in interstate commerce. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is now charged with the administration of this law. (DOE5)

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): The purpose of the Federal Railroad Administration is to promulgate and enforce rail safety regulations, administer railroad financial assistance programs, conduct research and development in support of improved railroad safety and national rail transportation policy, provide for the rehabilitation of Northeast corridor rail passenger service, and consolidate government support of rail transportation activities. The FRA was created pursuant to section 3(e)(1) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 (49 U.S.C. app. 1652). (OFR1)

Federal Register: Daily publication which provides a uniform system for making regulations and legal notices issued by the Executive Branch and various departments of the Federal government available to the public. (USCG1)

Federal Transit Administration (FTA): (Formerly the Urban Mass Transportation Administration) operates under the authority of the Federal Transit Act, as amended (49 U.S.C. app. 1601 et seq.). The Federal Transit Act was repealed on July 5, 1994, and the Federal transit laws were codified and re-enacted as chapter 53 of Title 49, United States Code. The Federal Transit Administration was established as a component of the Department of Transportation by section 3 of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1968 (5 U.S.C. app.), effective July 1, 1968. The missions of the Administration are 1) to assist in the development of improved mass transportation facilities, equipment, techniques, and methods, with the cooperation of mass transportation companies both public and private. 2) to encourage the planning and establishment of areawide urban mass transportation systems needed for economical and desirable urban development, with the cooperation of mass transportation companies both public and private. and 3) to provide assistance to State and local governments and their instrumentalities in financing such systems, to be operated by public or private mass transportation companies as determined by local needs; and 4) to provide financial assistance to State and local governments to help implement national goals relating to mobility for elderly persons, persons with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged persons. (OFR1)

Federal Water Pollution Control Act (FWPCA): Law passed in 1970 and amended in 1972 giving the Coast Guard a mandate to develop, among other things, marine sanitation device regulations. (USCG1)

Federal-Aid Highways: Those highways eligible for assistance under Title 23 U.S.C. except those functionally classified as local or rural minor collectors. (23CFR500)

Federal-Aid Primary Highway System: The Federal-Aid Highway System of rural arterials and their extensions into or through urban areas in existence on June 1, 1991, as described in 23 U.S.C. 103b) in effect at that time. (23CFR658)

Feeder Bus: A bus service that picks up and delivers passengers to a rail rapid transit station or express bus stop or terminal. (APTA1)

Feeder Fix: The fix depicted on Instrument Approach Procedure Charts which establishes the starting point of the feeder route. (FAA4)

Feeder Route: A route depicted on instrument approach procedure charts to designate routes for aircraft to proceed from the en route structure to the initial approach fix (IAF). (FAA4)

Feeder Vessel: A vessel which transfers containers to a "mother ship" for an ocean voyage. (MARAD2)

FEEST: Freight Equipment Environmental Sampling Test Program (RSPA1)

FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency (MOCD)

FERC: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (BTS8) (DOE3) (DOE8)

Ferries: Establishments primarily engaged in operating ferries for the transportation of passengers or vehicles. (BOC1)

Ferry Boat: A boat providing fixed-route service across a body of water. (APTA1)

Ferry Crossing: Route used to transport traffic between two points separated by water. (DOI3)

Ferry Flight: A flight for the purpose of: 1) Returning an aircraft to base. 2) Delivering an aircraft from one location to another. 3) Moving an aircraft to and from a maintenance base. Ferry flights, under certain conditions, may be conducted under terms of a special flight permit. (FAA4)

Ferry Vessel: A vessel which is limited in its use to the carriage of deck passengers or vehicles or both, operates on a short run on a frequent schedule between two points over the most direct water route, other than in ocean or coastwise service, and is offered as a public service of a type normally attributed to a bridge or tunnel. (49CFR171)

Ferryboats: Vessels for carrying passengers and/or vehicles over a body of water. The vessels are generally steam or diesel-powered conventional ferry vessels. They may also be hovercraft, hydrofoil and other high speed vessels. (FTA1)

FEU: Forty-Foot Container Equivalent Unit (MARAD3)

FFV: Flexible Fuel Vehicle (VDOT)

FGDC: Federal Geographic Data Committee (BTS2)

FHTV: Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (MTMC1)

FHWA: Federal Highway Administration (BTS2) (MTMC1) (NHTSA4) (NHTSA6) (OFR1)

Fiberglass (Plastic) Hull: Hulls of fiber reinforced plastic. The laminate consists of two basic components, the reinforcing material (glass filaments) and the plastic or resin in which it is embedded. (USCG2)

Field and Gathering Pipelines: A network of pipelines (mains) transporting natural gas from the individual wells to a compressor station, processing point, or main trunk pipeline. (AGA1)

Field Area: (See also Pool) A geographic area encompassing two or more pools that have a common gathering and metering system, the reserves of which are reported as a single unit. This concept applies primarily to the Appalachian region. (DOE5)

Field Separation Facility: A surface installation designed to recover lease condensate from a produced natural gas stream usually originating from more than one lease and managed by the operator of one or more of these leases. (DOE5)

Fifth Wheel: A device mounted on a truck tractor or similar towing vehicle (e.g., converter dolly) which interfaces with and couples to the upper coupler assembly of a semitrailer. (49CFR393) (ATA2)

Fifth Wheel: Load supporting plate mounted to frame of vehicle. Pivot mounted, it contains provisions for accepting and holding the kingpin of a semi-trailer, providing a flexible connection between the tractor and the trailer. (TII1) (TII2)

FIFV: Future Infantry Fighting Vehicle (MTMC1)

Filed: Normally used in conjunction with flight plans, meaning a flight plan has been submitted to Air Traffic Control (ATC). (FAA4)

Filed En Route Delay: Any of the following preplanned delays at points/areas along the route of flight which require special flight plan filing and handling techniques. 1) Terminal Area Delay. A delay within a terminal area for touch and go, low approach, or other terminal area activity. 2) Special Use Airspace Delay. A delay within a Military Operating Area, Restricted Area, Warning Area, or Air Traffic Control (ATC) Assigned Airspace. 3) Aerial Refueling Delay. A delay within an Aerial Refueling Track or Anchor. (FAA4)

Fill Material: Any material used for the primary purpose of replacing an aquatic area with dry land or of changing the bottom elevation of a body of water. (TNDOT1)

Final: Commonly used to mean that an aircraft is on the final approach course or is aligned with a landing area. (FAA4)

Final Approach: That part of an instrument approach procedure which commences at the specified final approach fix or point, or where such a fix or point is not specified, 1) At the end of the last procedure turn, base turn or inbound turn of a racetrack procedure, if specified; or 2) At the point of interception of the last track specified in the approach procedure; and ends at a point in the vicinity of an aerodrome from which: a) A landing can be made; or b) A missed approach procedure is initiated. (FAA4)

Final Approach Course: A published Microwave Landing System (MLS) course, a straight line extension of a localizer, a final approach radial/bearing, or a runway centerline all without regard to distance. (FAA4)

Final Approach Fix (FAF): The fix from which the final approach Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) to an airport is executed and which identifies the beginning of the final approach segment. It is designated on Government charts by the Maltese Cross symbol for nonprecision approaches and the lightning bolt symbol for precision approaches; or when Air Traffic Control (ATC) directs a lower-than-published Glideslope/path Intercept Altitude, it is the resultant actual point of the glideslope/path intercept. (FAA4)

Final Approach Point (FAP): The point, applicable only to a nonprecision approach with no depicted Final Approach Fix (FAF) (such as an on-airport VOR), where the aircraft is established inbound on the final approach course from the procedure turn and where the final approach descent may be commenced. The final approach point (FAP) serves as the FAF and identifies the beginning of the final approach segment. (FAA4)

Final Approach Segment: That segment of an instrument approach procedure in which alignment and descent for landing are accomplished. (FAA4)

Final Controller: (See also Air Traffic Control Specialist; Controller) The controller providing information and final approach guidance during PAR and Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) approaches utilizing radar equipment. (FAA4)

Final Monitor Aid: A high resolution color display that is equipped with the controller alert system hardware/software which is used in the precision runway monitor (PRM) system. The display includes alert algorithms providing the target predictors, a color change alert when a target penetrates or is predicted to penetrate the no transgression zone (NTZ), a color change alert if the aircraft transponder becomes inoperative, synthesized voice alerts, digital mapping and like features contained in the PRM system. (FAA4)

Finished Aviation Gasoline: (See also Gasoline) All special grades of gasoline for use in aviation reciprocating engines, as given in American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Specification D910 and Military Specification MIL-G-5572. Excludes blending components that will be used for blending or compounding into finished aviation gasoline. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Gasohol Motor Gasoline: (See also Gasohol, Gasoline) A blend of finished motor gasoline (leaded or unleaded) and alcohol (generally ethanol, but sometimes methanol) in which 10 percent or more of the product is alcohol. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Gasoline: See also Gasoline.

Finished Leaded Gasoline: Contains more than 0.05 gram of lead per gallon or more than 0.005 gram of phosphorus per gallon. Premium and regular grades are included, depending on the octane rating. Includes leaded gasohol. Blendstock is excluded until blending has been completed. Alcohol that is to be used in the blending of gasohol is also excluded. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Leaded Premium Motor Gasoline: Motor gasoline having an antiknock index, calculated as (R+M)/2, greater than 90 and containing more than 0.05 gram of lead per gallon or more than 0.005 gram of phosphorus per gallon. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Leaded Regular Motor Gasoline: Motor gasoline having an antiknock index, calculated as (R+M)/2, greater than or equal to 87 and less than or equal to 90 and containing more than 0.05 gram of lead or 0.005 gram of phosphorus per gallon. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Motor Gasoline: 1) A complex mixture of relatively volatile hydrocarbons, with or without small quantities of additives, blended to form a fuel suitable for use in spark-ignition engines. Specification for motor gasoline, as given in American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Specification D439-88 or Federal Specification VV-G-1690B, include a boiling range of 122 degrees to 158 degrees Fahrenheit at the 10-percent point to 365 degrees to 374 degrees Fahrenheit at the 90-percent point and a Reid vapor pressure range from 9 to 15 psi. "Motor gasoline" includes finished leaded gasoline, finished unleaded gasoline, and gasohol. Blendstock is excluded until blending has been completed. (Alcohol that is to be used in the blending of gasohol is also excluded.) 2) Motor gasoline that is not included in the reformulated or oxygenated categories. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Unleaded Gasoline: Contains not more than 0.05 gram of lead per gallon and not more than 0.005 gram of phosphorus per gallon. Premium and regular grades are included, depending on the octane rating. Includes unleaded gasohol. Blendstock is excluded until blending has been completed. Alcohol that is to be used in the blending of gasohol is also excluded. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Unleaded Midgrade Motor Gasoline: Motor gasoline having an antiknock index, calculated as (R+M)/2, greater than or equal to 88 and less than or equal to 90 and containing not more than 0.05 gram of phosphorus per gallon. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Unleaded Premium Motor Gasoline: Motor gasoline having an antiknock index, calculated as (R+M)/2, greater than 90 and containing not more than 0.05 gram of lead or 0.005 gram of phosphorus per gallon. (DOE3) (DOE5)

Finished Unleaded Regular Motor Gasoline: Motor gasoline having an antiknock index, calculated as (R+M)/2, of 87 containing not more than 0.05 gram of lead per gallon and not more than 0.005 gram of phosphorus per gallon. (DOE3) (DOE5)

FINS: Freight Information System (BTS7)

FIPS: Federal Information Processing Standards (FHWA8)

FIR: Flight Information Region (FAA4)

Fire: Uncontrolled combustion by flame or smoke resulting in evidence of charring, melting, or other evidence of ignition. (FTA1)

Fire or Violent Rupture: (See also Flash Resistant) An accident/incident caused by combustion or violent release of material carried by or transported by rail. Examples of this type include: fuel and electrical equipment fires; crankcase explosions; and, violent release of liquified petroleum or anhydrous ammonia. (FRA2)

Fire Resistant: 1) With respect to sheet or structural members means the capacity to withstand the heat associated with fire at least as well as aluminum alloy in dimensions appropriate for the purpose for which they are used; and 2) With respect to fluid-carrying lines, fluid system parts, wiring, air ducts, fittings, and powerplant controls, means the capacity to perform the intended functions under the heat and other conditions likely to occur when there is a fire at the place concerned. (14CFR1)

Fire/Explosion, Fuel: Accidental combustion of vessel fuel, liquids, including their vapors, or other substances, such as wood or coal. (USCG2)

Fire/Explosion, Other: Accidental burning or explosion of any material on board except vessel fuels or their vapors. (USCG2)

Firefighting Vehicle: A vehicle designed exclusively for the purpose of fighting fires. (49CFR571)

Fireproof: 1) With respect to materials and parts used to confine fire in a designated fire zone, means the capacity to withstand at least as well as steel in dimensions appropriate for the purpose for which they are used, the heat produced when there is a severe fire of extended duration in that zone; and 2) With respect to other materials and parts, means the capacity to withstand the heat associated with fire at least as well as steel in dimensions appropriate for the purpose for which they are used. (14CFR1)

First Call On Berth Privilege: See Preferential Assignment.

First Class Passenger Revenue: Revenues from the air transportation of passengers moving at either standard fares, premium fares, or at reduced fares not predicated upon the use of aircraft space specifically separated from first class, and for whom standard or premium quality services are provided. (BTS4)

First Class Service: Transport service established for the carriage of passengers moving at either standard fares or premium fares, or at reduced fares not predicated upon the operation of specifically allocated aircraft space, and for whom standard or premium quality services are provided. (BTS5)

First Harmful Event: A first harmful event is the first event during a traffic accident that causes an injury (fatal or nonfatal) or property damage. (FHWA5)

First Harmful Event: The first event during a crash that caused injury or property damage. (NHTSA1) (NHTSA3)

First Tier Center: The air route traffic control center immediately adjacent to the impacted center. (FAA4)

Fishy Back: The movement of loaded truck trailers by barge or ferry. (TNDOT1)

FIT: Fit and Independent Traveler

Fix: A geographical position determined by visual reference to the surface, by reference to one or more radio navigational aids (NAVAIDs), by celestial plotting, or by another navigational device. (FAA4)

Fix Balancing: A process whereby aircraft are evenly distributed over several available arrival fixes reducing delays and controller workload. (FAA4)

Fixed Collision Barrier: A flat, vertical, unyielding surface with the following characteristics: 1) The surface is sufficiently large that when struck by a tested vehicle, no portion of the vehicle projects or passes beyond the surface; 2) The approach is a horizontal surface that is large enough for the vehicle to attain a stable attitude during its approach to the barrier, and that does not restrict vehicle motion during impact; 3) When struck by a vehicle, the surface and its supporting structure absorb no significant portion of the vehicle's kinetic energy, so that a performance requirement described in terms of impact with a fixed collision barrier must be met no matter how small an amount of energy is absorbed by the barrier. (49CFR571)

Fixed Crane: A crane whose principal structure is mounted on a permanent or semipermanent foundation. (TNDOT1)

Fixed Dam: A dam which does not permit the passage of marine traffic and requires the use of a lock in contrast to movable dams which, during periods of high water, are lowered to allow traffic to pass directly over the dam. Also, any dam that has a fixed height without adjustment such as a concrete spillway throughout the length of the dam exclusive of the lock chamber. (TNDOT1)

Fixed Guideway System: A system of vehicles that can operate only on its own guideway constructed for that purpose (e.g., rapid rail, light rail). Federal usage in funding legislation also includes exclusive right-of-way bus operations, trolley coaches and ferryboats as "fixed guideway" transit. (APTA1)

Fixed Object: Stationary structures or substantial vegetation attached to the terrain. (NHTSA1) (NHTSA3)

Fixed Operating Cost: In reference to passenger car operating cost, refers to those expenditures that are independent of the amount of use of the car, such as insurance costs, fees for license and registration, depreciation and finance charges. (DOE6)

Fixed Route: Service provided on a repetitive, fixed-schedule basis along a specific route with vehicles stopping to pick up and deliver passengers to specific locations; each fixed-route trip serves the same origins and destinations, unlike demand response and taxicabs. (APTA1)

Fixed Route System: A system of transporting individuals (other than by aircraft), including the provision of designated public transportation service by public entities and the provision of transportation service by private entities, including, but not limited to, specified public transportation service, on which a vehicle is operated along a prescribed route according to a fixed schedule. (49CFR37)

FL: Flight Level (FAA17) (FAA7) (FAA8)

Flag: A warning device incorporated in certain airborne navigation and flight instruments indicating that: 1) Instruments are inoperative or otherwise not operating satisfactorily, or 2) Signal strength or quality of the received signal falls below acceptable values. (FAA4)

Flag Drop Charge: The charge for an initial distance (usually specified by regulation) for taxi service. It is actually the minimum fare. (TRB1)

Flagman's Signals: A red flag by day and a white light at night, and a specified number of torpedoes and fusees as prescribed in the railroad's operating rules. (49CFR218)

Flame Resistant: Not susceptible to combustion to the point of propagating a flame, beyond safe limits, after the ignition source is removed. (14CFR1)

Flameout: Unintended loss of combustion in turbine engines resulting in the loss of engine power. (FAA4)

Flammable: With respect to a fluid or gas, means susceptible to igniting readily or to exploding. (14CFR1)

Flanking Buoy: Buoy tied to the corner of a tow so pilot can tell when tow has been checked. (TNDOT1)

Flanking Maneuver: Maneuvering action of a tow (when downbound) approaching at an angle (usually 30 to 45 degrees) at bridges or locks or in sharp bends. Only the current is utilized for headway, and the engines and rudders are used to maintain the angle until just before the lead barges reach the bridge span, at which time the engines are backed and the head of the tow is swung gently in line with the opening. Then full power is applied to drive through the opening. This is the safest way that a heavy tow can make tight passages. (TNDOT1)

Flanking Rudder: A rudder installed forward of the screw, used for maneuvering when the propellers are turning a stem regardless of the direction of actual movement of the towboat. Also called "backing rudders." (TNDOT1)

Flap Extended Speed: The highest speed permissible with wing flaps in a prescribed extended position. (14CFR1)

Flash Resistant: (See also Fire or Violent Rupture) Not susceptible to burning violently when ignited. (14CFR1)

Flasher: In rail systems, the flashing light at railroad grade crossings that warns motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians of approaching trains. (TRB1)

Flat: A small barge with flat top used for transporting fuel or other miscellaneous cargo. (TNDOT1)

Flat Bottom: Flatbed. (ATA1)

Flat Car: A rail car without a roof and walls. (MARAD2)

Flat Face: Cab over engine. (ATA1)

Flat Pool: The normal stage of water in the area between two dams that is to be maintained by design when little or no water is flowing; hence the pool flattens out. (TNDOT1)

Flat Rate Manual: A manual published by an equipment manufacturer or an independent publisher that indicates the length of time required for performing specific mechanical tasks such as installing a clutch. Normally, the costs of parts required for a specific job are also listed. (GSA2)

Flatbed: Truck or trailer without sides and top. (ATA1)

Flatboat: A rectangular, flat bottomed boat used on the western rivers during the 18th and 19th centuries. (TNDOT1)

Fleet: The vehicles in a transit system. Usually, "fleet" refers to highway vehicles and "rolling stock" to rail vehicles. (TRB1)

Fleet Management Center (FMC): A formally approved element of the Interagency Fleet Management System (IFMS) responsible for the administrative control of Interagency Fleet Management System (IFMS) vehicles in a specified geographic area as defined in the determination that is approved by the Administrator of General Services. (GSA2)

Fleet Management Subcenter: A formally approved element of the Interagency Fleet Management System (IFMS) Fleet Management Center physically detached from the central or main Fleet Management Center. (GSA2)

Fleet Management System (FMS): The automated inventory and control system used by the Interagency Fleet Management System (IFMS) to track vehicle assignments, vehicle utilization, and provide direct input to the Finance Division to bill customer agencies for the use of IFMS vehicles. (GSA2)

Fleet Vehicles: 1) Private fleet vehicles: ideally, a vehicle could be classified as a member of a fleet if it is operated in mass by a corporation or institution, operated under unified control, or used for non-personal activities; however, the definition of a fleet is not consistent throughout the fleet industry. Some companies make a distinction between cars that were bought in bulk rather than singularly, or whether they are operated in bulk, as well as the minimum number of vessels that constitute a fleet (i.e. 4 or 10); 2) Government fleet vehicles: includes vehicles owned by all federal (GSA) state, county, city, and metro units of government, including toll road operations. (DOE6)

Fleeting: Storing of barges (loaded or unloaded) until they can be moved to the unloading area or until the owner can pick them up. (TNDOT1)

Flight Advisory Service: (See also Flight Watch) A service specifically designed to provide, upon pilot request, timely weather information pertinent to his type of flight, intended route of flight, and altitude. The flight service stations providing this service are listed in the Airport/Facility Directory. (FAA4)

Flight Check: (See also Flight Inspection) A call-sign prefix used by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aircraft engaged in flight inspection/certification of navigational aids and flight procedures. The word "recorded" may be added as a suffix; (e.g., "Flight Check 320 recorded" to indicate that an automated flight inspection is in progress in terminal areas). (FAA4)

Flight Crew Member: A pilot, flight engineer, or flight navigator assigned to duty in an aircraft during flight time. (14CFR1)

Flight Equipment: The total cost of property and equipment of all types used in the in-flight operations of aircraft and construction work in progress. (BTS4)

Flight Information Region (FIR): An airspace of defined dimensions within which Flight Information Service and Alerting Service are provided. (FAA4)

Flight Information Service: A service provided for the purpose of giving advice and information useful for the safe and efficient conduct of flights. (FAA4) (FAA8)

Flight Inspection: (See also Flight Check) Inflight investigation and evaluation of a navigational aid to determine whether it meets established tolerances. (FAA4)

Flight Level: (See also Cardinal Altitude) A level of constant atmospheric pressure related to a reference datum of 29.92 inches of mercury. Each is stated in three digits that represent hundreds of feet. For example, flight level 250 represents a barometric altimeter indication of 25,000 feet; flight level 255, an indication of 25,500 feet. (14CFR1)

Flight Line: A term used to describe the precise movement of a civil photogrammetric aircraft along a predetermined course(s) at a predetermined altitude during the actual photographic run. (FAA4)

Flight Management System: A computer system that uses a large data base to allow routes to be preprogrammed and fed into the system by means of a data loader. The system is constantly updated with respect to position accuracy by reference to conventional navigation aids. The sophisticated program and its associated data base insures that the most appropriate aids are automatically selected during the information update cycle. (FAA4)

Flight Management System Procedure: An arrival, departure, or approach procedure developed for use by aircraft with a slant (/G) equipment suffix. (FAA4)

Flight Path: (See also Bearing, Course) A line, course, or track along which an aircraft is flying or intended to be flown. (FAA4) (FAA8)

Flight Plan: Specified information, relating to the intended flight of an aircraft, that is filed orally or in writing with air traffic control. (14CFR1) (FAA2) (FAA5) (FAA14)

Flight Plan Area: The geographical area assigned by regional air traffic divisions to a flight service station for the purpose of search and rescue for Visual Flight Rule (VFR) aircraft, issuance of NOTAMs, pilot briefing, in-flight services, broadcast, emergency services, flight data processing, international operations, and aviation weather services. Three letter identifiers are assigned to every flight service station and are annotated in AFD's and Order 7350.6 as tie-in-facilities. (FAA4)

Flight Recorder: A general term applied to any instrument or device that records information about the performance of an aircraft in flight or about conditions encountered in flight. Flight recorders may make records of airspeed, outside air temperature, vertical acceleration, engine RPM, manifold pressure, and other pertinent variables for a given flight. (FAA4)

Flight Service Station (FSS): Air traffic facilities which pilot briefing, en route communications, and VFR search and rescue services; assist lost aircraft and aircraft in emergency situations; relay ATC clearances; originate Notices to Airmen, broadcast aviation weather and NAS information; receive and process IFR flight plans, monitor radio Navigation Aids (NAVAIDS). In addition, at selected locations, FSSs take weather observations, issue airport advisories, and advise Customs and Immigration of transborder flight. (FAA2) (FAA4) (FAA8) (FAA13)

Flight Services: The sum of flight plans originated and pilot briefs, multiplied by two, plus the number of aircraft contacted. (FAA2)

Flight Stage: The operation of an aircraft from take-off to landing. (BTS5) (BTS6)

Flight Standards District Office: An Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) field office serving an assigned geographical area and staffed with Flight Standards personnel who serve the aviation industry and the general public on matters relating to the certification and operation of air carrier and general aviation aircraft. Activities include general surveillance of operational safety, certification of airmen and aircraft, accident prevention, investigation, enforcement, etc. (FAA4)

Flight Test: A flight for the purpose of: 1) Investigating the operation/flight characteristics of an aircraft or aircraft component. 2) Evaluating an applicant for a pilot certificate or rating. (FAA4)

Flight Time: The time from the moment the aircraft first moves under its own power for the purpose of flight until the moment it comes to rest at the next point of landing. Also known as block-to-block time. (14CFR1)

Flight Visibility: The average forward horizontal distance, from the cockpit of an aircraft in flight, at which prominent unlighted objects may be seen and identified by day and prominent lighted objects may be seen and identified by night. (14CFR1)

Flight Watch: (See also Flight Advisory Service) A shortened term for use in air-ground contacts to identify the flight service station providing En Route Flight Advisory Service (e.g., "Oakland Flight Watch"). (FAA4)

FLIR: Forward Looking Infra - Red (MARAD1)

FLL: Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport (FAA11)

Float: Flatbed semitrailer. (ATA1)

Float Light: A 10 foot wooden platform mounted on pontoons supporting a battery-operated light. Used exclusively on the Upper Mississippi River in a certain area. (TNDOT1)

Floater: Driver without a steady job. (ATA1)

Floating Crane: A crane mounted on a barge or pontoon which can be towed or self-propelled from place to place. (TNDOT1)

Floating Pin: A mooring pin or timberhead attached to a floating tank in a lock chamber set in a guided recess in the lock walls, for mooring tows within the lock chamber whereby a short mooring line suffices without an attendant. (TNDOT1)

Floating the Gears: Shifting gears without using the clutch. (ATA1)

Floats: Large single, instead of dual tires. (ATA1)

Flood Plain: An area which is subject to periodic flooding. (DOI4)

Flood Stage: Condition of the river when it rises above a stage predetermined by the Corps of Engineers to be designated as flood stage. Also, the stage at which some part of the main bank may be over flowed, but not necessarily all of it. (TNDOT1)

Floodgate: (See also Gate; Tidegate) Gate placed across/along a channel to control floodwater or a gate across a roadway in levee. (DOI3)

Flooding: Filling with water, regardless of method of ingress, but retaining sufficient buoyancy to remain on the surface. (USCG2)

Flow Control: Measures designed to adjust the flow of traffic into a given airspace, along a given route, or bound for a given aerodrome (airport) so as to ensure the most effective utilization of the airspace. (FAA4)

FLOWSIM: Traffic Flow Planning Simulation (FAA17)

Fly Heading (Degrees): Informs the pilot of the heading he should fly. The pilot may have to turn to, or continue on, a specific compass direction in order to comply with the instructions. The pilot is expected to turn in the shorter direction to the heading unless otherwise instructed by ATC. (FAA4)

Flyaway Value: Includes the cost of the airframe, engines, electronics, communications, armament, and other installed equipment. (AIA1)

Flyer: A run in which the driver takes a trailer to a distant terminal, leaves it there and immediately pulls another trailer back to his home terminal. (ATA1)

Flying (Other Work Use): Any aircraft used for construction work (not included under Part 135), helicopter, hoist, towing gliders, or parachuting. (FAA2)

Flying (Other): Any other use of an aircraft not included above (experimentation, R&D, testing, demonstration, government). (FAA2)

Flying Operations Expenses: Expenses incurred directly in the in-flight operation of aircraft and expenses related to the holding of aircraft and aircraft operational personnel in readiness for assignment for an in-flight status. (BTS4)

Flying Orders: Trip instructions issued to a driver by his dispatcher. (ATA1)

FM: Fan Marker (14CFR1)

FM: Frequency Modulation (FAA19)

FMA: Final Monitor Aid (FAA4)

FMC: Federal Maritime Commission (MARAD4)

FMC: Fleet Management Center (GSA2)

FMCS: Freight Movement Control System (MTMC1)

FMCSR: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FHWA9) (FHWA10)

FMHR: Federal Hazardous Materials Regulations (49CFR350)

FMIS: Financial Management Information System (FHWA8)

FMS: Flight Management System (FAA17) (FAA7)

FMS: Fleet Management System (GSA2)

FMVCP: Federal Motor Vehicle Control Program (BTS8)

FMVSS: Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FHWA10) (NHTSA5)

FO: Free Out (USTTA1)

Foamed Buoy: A buoy whose interior is filled with styrofoam for the purpose of improving flotation when in a damaged condition. (TNDOT1)

FOB: Free On Board (DOE8)

FOCAS: Forward Crash Avoidance Systems (NHTSA5)

FOIA: Freedom of Information Act (FAA3)

FOQA: Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FAA7)

FOR: Free On Rail (MARAD2)

For Hire: Refers to a vehicle operated on behalf of or by a company that provides transport services to its customers. (BOC3)

For-Hire Carriage: Transportation of property by motor vehicle except when: 1) The property is transported by a person engaged in a business other than transportation; and 2) The transportation is within the scope of, and furthers a primary business (other than transportation) of, the person. (49CFR387)

For-Hire Motor Carrier: A person engaged in the transportation of goods or passengers for compensation. (49CFR390)

Force Majeure: The title of a standard clause found in marine contracts exempting the parties for non-fulfillment of their obligations by reasons of occurrences beyond their control, such as earthquakes, floods, or war. (TNDOT1)

Ford: The shallow part of a river which can be easily crossed. (DOI4)

Fore and Aft: The direction on a vessel parallel to the center line. (MARAD2)

Fore and Aft Line: A line used to secure two barges end to end. (TNDOT1)

Fore Bay: An enclosure of the river, usually above a dam. (TNDOT1)

Foreign: Outside the fifty United States and the District of Columbia. (49CFR383)

Foreign Air Carrier: (See also Foreign Flag Air Carrier) Any person other than a citizen of the United States, who undertakes directly, by lease or other arrangement, to engage in air transportation. (14CFR1)

Foreign Air Commerce: The carriage by aircraft of persons or property for compensation or hire, or the carriage of mail by aircraft, or the operation or navigation of aircraft in the conduct or furtherance of a business or vocation, in commerce between a place in the United States and any place outside thereof; whether such commerce moves wholly by aircraft or partly by aircraft and partly by other forms of transportation. (14CFR1)

Foreign Air Transportation: The carriage by aircraft of persons or property as a common carrier for compensation or hire, or the carriage of mail by aircraft, in commerce between a place in the United States and any place outside of the United States, whether that commerce moves wholly by aircraft or partly by aircraft and partly by other forms of transportation. (14CFR1)

Foreign Current: A term applied to stray electric currents which may affect a signaling system, but which are not a part of the system. (49CFR236)

Foreign Exchange Gains and Losses: Gains or losses resulting from nonroutine abnormal changes in the rates of foreign exchange. (BTS4)

Foreign Flag Air Carrier: (See also Foreign Air Carrier) An air carrier other than a U.S. flag air carrier in international air transportation. "Foreign air carrier" is a more inclusive term than "foreign flag air carrier," including those non-U.S. air carriers operating solely within their own domestic boundaries. In practice, the two terms are used interchangeably. (FAA2) (FAA14)

Foreign Flag Air Carrier: An air carrier other than a US flag air carrier providing international air transportation. Certificated in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations Part 129. (FAA11)

Foreign Fleet: All reportable agency owned motor vehicles, operated outside any State, Commonwealth, Territory or possession of the United States. (GSA1)

Foreign Freight: Movements between the United States and foreign countries and between Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and foreign countries. Trade between U.S. territories and possessions (e.g. Guam, Wake, American Samoa) and foreign countries is excluded. Traffic to or from the Panama Canal Zone is included. (DOE6)

Foreign Freight Forwarder: An independent business which makes shipments for exporters for a fee. (TNDOT1)

Foreign Mail: Mail transported outside the United States by U.S. flag carriers for a foreign government. (BTS5) (FAA2) (FAA15)

Foreign Trade: The exchange of waterborne commodity movements (imports and exports) between the United States and its territory, and foreign countries. (MARAD1)

Foreign Trade Zone: An isolated area, attached to a port, where facilities for dockage and unloading are provided, and where foreign merchandise may be stored or manipulated pending sale or reshipment without limitation as to time and without compliance with the customs laws and regulations relating to the entry of merchandise. Most such privileges are equally available at other regular ports of entry by arrangement with U.S. Customs Bureau. (TNDOT1)

Foreshore: The part of a seashore between high-water and low-water marks. (DOI3)

Forestall: As applied to an automatic train stop or train control device, to prevent an automatic brake application by operation of an acknowledging device or by manual control of the speed of the train. (49CFR236)

Forklift Truck: A high-powered vehicle equipped with hydraulic driven protruding metal blades, that is used to raise and lower unitized freight. (MARAD1)

Form 41 Filer: Any primarily passenger airline carrier that files a "Form 41" with the Department of Transportation. These carriers are not required to file in the 1992 Economic Census. (BOC2)

Formation Flight: (See also Altitude Reservation) More than one aircraft which, by prior arrangement between the pilots, operate as a single aircraft with regard to navigation and position reporting. Separation between aircraft within the formation is the responsibility of the flight leader and the pilots of the other aircraft in the flight. This includes transition periods when aircraft within the formation are maneuvering to attain separation from each other to effect individual control and during join-up and breakaway. 1) A standard formation is one in which a proximity of no more than 1 mile laterally or longitudinally and within 100 feet vertically from the flight leader is maintained by each wingman. 2) Nonstandard formations are those operating under any of the following conditions: a) When the flight leader has requested and Air Traffic Control (ATC) has approved other than standard formation dimensions. b) When operating within an authorized altitude reservation (ALTRV) or under the provisions of a letter of agreement. c) When the operations are conducted in airspace specifically designed for a special activity. (FAA4)

Forward Control: A configuration in which more than half of the engine length is rearward of the foremost point of the windshield base and the steering wheel hub is in the forward quarter of the vehicle length. (49CFR571)

Forward Control: Vehicle with driver controls (pedals, steering wheel, instruments) located as far forward as possible. Supplied with or without body, the controls are stationary mounted as opposed to the special mountings of tilt cabs. (TII1) (TII2)

Forward Wing: A forward lifting surface of a canard configuration or tandem-wing configuration airplane. The surface may be a fixed, movable, or variable geometric surface, with or without control surfaces. (14CFR1)

Fossil Fuel: Any naturally occurring organic fuel, such as petroleum, coal, and natural gas. (DOE3)

Foul Bill of Lading: A receipt for goods issued by a carrier with an indication that the goods were damaged when received. (USTTA1)

Foul Ground: An area identified as a danger to maritime navigation where the holding qualities for an anchor are poor, or where danger exists of striking or fouling the ground or other obstructions. (DOI3)

Fouling Section: The section of track between the switch points and the clearance point in a turnout. (49CFR236)

Four Banger: Four cylinder engine. (ATA1)

Four By Four: Four speed transmission and 4 speed auxiliary transmission. (ATA1)

FPC: Federal Power Commission (DOE3) (DOE8)

FPS: Military Primary Radar (FAA19)

FR: Federal Register (FHWA10)

FR: Final Rule (RSPA1)

FRA: Federal Railroad Administration (BTS2) (MTMC1) (OFR1)

Frangible Navigational Aid (NAVAID): A navigational aid whose properties allow it to fail at a specified impact load. (FAA12)

FRC: Request Full Route Clearance (FAA4)

Free Alongside Ship (FAS): A price quotation under which the exporter quotes a price that includes delivery of the goods to the vessel's side and within reach of its loading tackle. Subsequent risks and expenses are for the account of the buyer. (TNDOT1)

Free Alongside Ship Value (FAS): The value of a commodity at the port of exportation, generally including the purchase price plus all charges incurred in placing the commodity alongside the carrier at the port of exportation in the country of exportation. (DOE5)

Free In: A pricing term indicating that the charterer of a vessel is responsible for the cost of loading goods onto the vessel. (USTTA1)

Free In and Out: Terms under which cost of loading and discharging cargo is borne by parties other than vessel owner or operator. (TNDOT1)

Free of Particular Average: A marine insurance term meaning that assurer will not allow payment for partial loss or damage to a foreign shipment. (TNDOT1)

Free On Board (FOB): 1) A price quotation under which the exporter quotes a price that includes delivery of the goods on board the vessel. Subsequent risks and expenses are for the account of the buyer. 2) A transaction whereby the seller makes the product available within an agreed-on period at a given port at a given price. It is the responsibility of the buyer to arrange for the transportation and insurance. (DOE3) (DOE5) (TNDOT1) (USTTA1)

Free On Board (FOB) Airport: FOB airport is based on the same principle as the ordinary FOB term. The seller's obligation include delivering the goods to the air carrier at the airport of departure. The risk of loss or damage to the goods is transferred from the seller to the buyer when the goods have been so delivered. (USTTA1)

Free Out (FO): Terms under which owner of goods is responsible for discharging costs. (TNDOT1)

Free Port: A restricted area at a seaport for the handling of duty-exempted import goods. (MARAD2)

Free Time: The amount of time that a carrier's equipment may be used without incurring additional charges. (MARAD2)

Free Trade Zone: A port designated by the government of a country for duty-free entry of any non-prohibited goods. Merchandise may be stored, displayed, used for manufacturing, etc., within the zone and re-exported without duties. (MARAD2)

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA): Allows all U.S. citizens and residents to request any records in possession of the executive branch of the federal government. The term "records" includes documents, papers, reports, letters, films, photographs, sound recordings, computer tapes and disks. An object that cannot be reproduced is not considered a record in this case. The federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) covers the President's cabinet agencies, independent agencies, regulatory commissions and government-owned corporations. Congress is exempt, as are federal courts and state and local governments. Some states and municipalities have laws modeled after the federal FOIA. The federal act includes nine exemptions that agencies may claim as a basis for withholding information. An administrative appeal can be filed that argues for disclosure based on benefits to the public vs. privacy. If a good argument is made, appellate reviewers may waive an exemption. (FAA3)

Freeway: See also Arterial, Expressway, Highway, Interstate Highway (Freeway or Expressway), Local Streets and Roads, Road.

Freeway: An expressway with full control of access. (FHWA2)

Freeways and Expressways: (See also Expressway, Highway, Interstate Highway (Freeway or Expressway)) All urban principal arterial with limited control of access not on the interstate system. (NHTSA3)

Freeze Calculated Landing Time (FCLT): A dynamic parameter number of minutes prior to the meter fix calculated time of arrival for each aircraft when the Tentative Calculated Landing Time (TCLT) is frozen and becomes an Actual Calculated Landing Time (ACLT) (i.e., the Vertex Time of Arrival (VTA) is updated and consequently the TCLT is modified as appropriate until Freeze Calculated Landing Time (FCLT) minutes prior to meter fix calculated time of arrival, at which time updating is suspended and an ACLT and a frozen meter fix crossing time (MFT) is assigned). (FAA4)

Freeze/Frozen: Terms used in referring to arrivals which have been assigned Actual Calculated Landing Times (ACLTs) and to the lists in which they are displayed. (FAA4)

Freight: See also Cargo, Commodity, Goods, Product.

Freight: Property other than express and passenger baggage transported by air. (BTS5)

Freight: Any commodity being transported. (ATA2)

Freight Agent: An establishment that arranges the transportation of freight and cargo for a fee. Revenue for freight agents (also known as shipping agents or brokers) represents commissions of fees and not the gross charges for transporting goods. (BOC2)

Freight All Kinds (FAK): Goods classified FAK are usually charged higher rates than those marked with a specific classification and are frequently in a container which includes various classes of cargo. (USTTA1)

Freight and Other Transportation Services Forwarding: Includes establishments that provide forwarding, packing, and other services incidental to transportation. Also included are horse-drawn cabs and carriages for-hire. (BEA1)

Freight Container: A reusable container having a volume of 64 cubic feet or more, designed and constructed to permit being lifted with its contents intact and intended primarily for containment of packages (in unit form) during transportation. (49CFR171)

Freight Forwarder: An individual or company that accepts less-than-truckload (TLT) or less-than-carload (LCL) shipments from shippers and combines them into carload or truckload lots. Designated as a common carrier under the Interstate Commerce Act. (ATA2)

Freight Forwarder: (See also Broker; Custom House Broker) A broker that functions as an intermediary between shippers (consignors/consignees) and carriers. Functions performed by a freight forwarder may include receiving small shipments (e.g., less than container load) from consignors, consolidating them into larger lots, contracts with carriers for transport between ports of embarkation and debarkation, conducts documentation transactions, and arrange delivery of shipments to the consignees. (MARAD1)

Freight Forwarding: Establishments primarily engaged in undertaking the transportation of goods from shippers to receivers for a charge covering the entire transportation, and in turn making use of the services of various freight carriers in effecting delivery. Establishment pays transportation charges as part of its costs of doing business and assumes responsibility for delivery of the goods. There are no direct relations between shippers and the various freight carriers performing the movement. (BOC1)

Freight Revenue: Revenues from the transportation by air of property other than passenger baggage. (BTS4)

Freight Service Operating Expenses: The sum of operating expenses directly assignable to freight service and an apportionment of expenses common to both freight and passenger service. (AAR1)

Freight Service Revenue: Revenue from the transportation of freight, switching of freight train cars, water transfers of freight, vehicles and livestock, movement of freight trains at a rate per train mile or for a lump sum, storage of freight, demurrage, grain elevators, stockyards, and miscellaneous services and facilities in connection with the transportation of freight. (AAR1)

Fringe Parking: An area for parking usually located outside the Central Business District (CBD) and most often used by suburban residents who work or shop downtown. (APTA1)

Frog: A track component used at the intersection of two running rails to provide support and guidance for the wheels. It allows wheels on each rail to cross the other rail. (TRB1)

From: A shipping term under which price quoted applies only at the point of origin, such as ex-mill, ex-rail car, ex-barge, and the seller agrees to place the goods at the disposal of the buyer at the agreed place within a fixed period of time. (TNDOT1)

From (Lower) End of Dike: From the outward or channel end of dike. (TNDOT1)

From a Little Open: An expression meaning to depart on a new course from a point 50 yards or less from a defined object. (TNDOT1)

From Foot of Dike: From the end of the dike where it is attached to the shore. (TNDOT1)

FRSI: Farm-Related Service Industries (FHWA10)

FSAS: Flight Service Automation System (FAA19) (FAA8)

FSDO: Flight Standards District Office (FAA4)

FSDPS: Flight Service Data Processing System (FAA19)

FSM: Flight Simulation Monitor (FAA17)

FSPD: Freeze Speed Parameter (FAA4)

FSS: Fast Sealift Ship (MTMC1)

FSS: Flight Service Station (FAA2) (FAA4) (FAA19) (FAA14) (FAA13)

FSV: Future Scout Vehicle (MTMC1)

FTA: Federal Transit Administration (BTS2) (FTA3)

FTD-E: Freight Traffic Division - Export (MTMC1)

FTD-I: Freight Traffic Division - Import (MTMC1)

FTD-S: Freight Traffic Division - Inspection (MTMC1)

FTMI: Flight Operations and Air Traffic Management Integration (FAA17)

FTP: File Transfer Protocol (BTS9)

Fuel: See also Gasohol, Gasoline, Kerosene.

Fuel: The primary fuel or energy source delivered to a residential site. It may be converted to some other form of energy at the site. Electricity is included as a fuel. Other primary fuels are coal, fuel oil, kerosene, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas, wood, and solar. (DOE5)

Fuel Cell: A device that produces electrical energy directly from the controlled electrochemical oxidation of the fuel. It does not contain an intermediate heat cycle, as do most other electrical generation techniques. (DOE5)

Fuel Code: A 2-digit numeric code that identifies the type of fuel used. The code identifies regular (gasoline and diesel) fuels, alternative fuels such as natural gas and methanol, and vehicles able to operate on a combination of these fuels (regular and alternative). (GSA2)

Fuel Dumping: (See also Jettisoning of External Stores) Airborne release of usable fuel. This does not include the dropping of fuel tanks. (FAA4)

Fuel Fire/Explosion: Accidental combustion of vessel fuel, liquids, including their vapors, or other substance such as wood or coal. (USCG2)

Fuel Injection: (See also Carburetor, Diesel Fuel System) A fuel delivery system whereby gasoline is pumped to one or more fuel injectors under high pressure. The fuel injectors are valves that, at the appropriate times, open to allow fuel to be sprayed or atomized into a throttle bore or into the intake manifold ports. The fuel injectors are usually solenoid operated valves under the control of the vehicle's on-board computer (thus the term "electronic fuel injection"). The fuel efficiency of fuel injection systems is less temperature dependent than carburetor systems. Diesel engines always use injectors. (DOE4)

Fuel Oil: A liquid petroleum product less volatile than gasoline, used as an energy source. Fuel oil includes distillate fuel oil (No. 1, No. 2, and No. 4), residual fuel oil (No. 5 and No. 6), and kerosene. (DOE5)

Fuel Oil, No. 1: A light distillate fuel oil intended for use in vaporizing pot-type burners. ASTM Specification D 396 specifies for this grade maximum distillation temperatures of 400 degrees Fahrenheit at the 10-percent point and 550 degrees Fahrenheit at the 90-percent point, and kinematic viscosities between 1.4 and 2.2 centistokes at 100 degrees Fahrenheit. (DOE2)

Fuel Oil, No. 2: A distillate fuel oil for use in atomizing type burners for domestic heating or for moderate capacity commercial-industrial burner units. ASTM Specification D 396 specifies for this grade distillation temperatures at the 90-percent point between 540 and 640 degrees Fahrenheit, and kinematic viscosities between 2.0 and 3.6 centistokes at 100 degrees Fahrenheit. (DOE2)

Fuel Oil, No. 4: A fuel oil for commercial burner installations not equipped for preheating facilities. It is used extensively in industrial plants. This grade is a blend of distillate fuel oil and residual fuel oil stocks that conform to ASTM Specification D 396 or Federal Specification VV-F-815C; its kinematic viscosity is between 5.8 and 26.4 centistokes at 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Also included is No. 4-D, a fuel oil for lower and medium-speed diesel engines that conforms to ASTM Specification D 975. (DOE2)

Fuel Remaining: (See also Minimum Fuel) A phrase used by either pilots or controllers when relating to the fuel remaining on board until actual fuel exhaustion. When transmitting such information in response to either a controller question or pilot initiated cautionary advisory to air traffic control, pilots will state the appropriate number of minutes the flight can continue with the fuel remaining. All reserve fuel should be included in the time stated, as should an allowance for established fuel gauge system error. (FAA4)

Fuel Siphoning: Unintentional release of fuel caused by overflow, puncture, loose cap, etc. (FAA4)

Fuel Tank: A tank other than a cargo tank, used to transport flammable or combustible liquid, or compressed gas for the purpose of supplying fuel for propulsion of the transport vehicle to which it is attached, or for the operation of other equipment on the transport vehicle. (49CFR171)

Fuel Tank Fitting: Any removable device affixed to an opening in the fuel tank with the exception of the filler cap. (49CFR393)

Fueling: Any stage of the fueling operation; primarily concerned with introduction of explosive or combustible vapors or liquids on board. (USCG2)

Full Berth Terms (FBT): Terms under which cost of loading and discharge is included in the steamship rate quoted. Ship owner pays loading and discharge costs. (TNDOT1)

Full Double: The maximum tow that can be locked. (TNDOT1)

Full Trailer: Any motor vehicle other than a pole trailer which is designed to be drawn by another motor vehicle and so constructed that no part of its weight, except for the towing device, rests upon the self-propelled towing unit. A semitrailer equipped with an auxiliary front axle (converter dolly) shall be considered a full trailer. (49CFR390)

Full Trailer: A truck-trailer with front and rear axles. The load weight is distributed over both the front axle(s) and rear axle(s). (BOC3)

Fullmount: A smaller vehicle mounted completely on the frame of either the first or last vehicle in a saddlemount combination. (23CFR658)

Furniture Van Body: Truck body designed for the transportation of household goods; usually a van of drop-frame construction. (ATA1)

Further Clearance Time: The time a pilot can expect to receive clearance beyond a clearance limit. (FAA4)

FWD: Falling Weight Deflectometer (FHWA7)

FWPCA: Federal Water Pollution Control Act (RSPA1) (USCG1)

FY: Fiscal Year (FAA19) (MARAD4)

FYI: For Your Information

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