What does 'airborne' indicate about an aircraft?

The term 'airborne' specifically refers to the state of an aircraft when it is not in contact with the ground, meaning it is flying in the air. This is the precise definition used in aviation terminology to indicate that the aircraft has successfully taken off and is operating in the airspace above the earth.

When the aircraft is described as airborne, it signifies that it has moved past the takeoff phase and into flight. This distinction is crucial for flight operations, safety protocols, and communication between the crew and air traffic control. Understanding this term helps flight attendants and crew members recognize the operational status of the aircraft during flights, which is essential for managing in-flight safety and passenger service effectively.

Other options refer to different points of the aircraft's flight cycle, but none accurately capture the specific meaning of 'airborne.'