What term describes the phase where the aircraft is prepared for landing?

The term that describes the phase where the aircraft is prepared for landing is "final approach." During this critical stage of flight, the aircraft descends towards the runway at a specific angle and speed, ensuring that it aligns properly for landing. This phase involves crucial tasks such as configuring the aircraft for landing, which includes extending the landing gear and adjusting flaps to enable a safe touchdown.

The final approach typically begins when the aircraft is about 10 miles from the runway, allowing pilots to stabilize their descent and manage their speed effectively. Preparing for landing includes communication with air traffic control and conducting safety checks to ensure all systems are ready for the aircraft's arrival.

Other phases listed, such as departure phase, climb phase, and cruise phase, do not pertain to the preparation for landing. The departure phase refers to the take-off and initial climb of the aircraft; the climb phase is the ascent to cruising altitude; and the cruise phase is the level flight at cruising altitude. Each of these is distinctly separate from the process of preparing the aircraft for landing.