What does "forward slip" mean in aviation?

The term "forward slip" refers to a technique used by pilots to lose altitude without increasing airspeed. This maneuver is particularly useful during descent when a pilot needs to bring the aircraft down more rapidly while maintaining control over the aircraft's speed.

In a forward slip, the pilot banks the airplane while applying opposite rudder input, which causes the aircraft to side-slip towards the ground. This allows the aircraft to descend faster without increasing its forward speed, making it an effective method for managing a steep approach to landing, particularly in situations where a pilot needs to lose altitude quickly without the risk of stalling.

Understanding this maneuver is essential, as it teaches pilots how to manage their descent profile effectively, especially in controlled environments or during emergency situations where a quick altitude reduction is necessary.