Which term describes the power produced by the aircraft at a given PCL position?

The term that describes the power produced by the aircraft at a given Power Control Lever (PCL) position is referred to as power available. This concept is crucial in understanding the performance capabilities of an aircraft, as it directly relates to the engine's output at a specified throttle setting.

When the PCL is adjusted, the power available indicates the maximum possible power that the aircraft can generate under those conditions. It takes into account factors like engine performance, atmospheric conditions, and altitude, which can all impact how much power the engine can deliver. Recognizing this helps pilots assess whether the aircraft can achieve the required performance for maneuvers such as climbing, cruising, or accelerating at any given time.

In contrast, other options like thrust required and power required focus more on the demand side of performance, representing the thrust or power necessary to maintain level flight or to climb under specific conditions, rather than what the engine can actually produce. Thrust excess, similarly, relates to the difference between thrust available (which is influenced by power available) and thrust required, indicating whether the aircraft can accelerate or climb. Understanding these nuances helps in making informed decisions during flight operations.