complementary colors. Two colors of light, which, when added in the proper proportion, produce white light.
complex circuit (electrical circuit). A circuit that contains a number of components, some of which are connected in series and others in parallel.
complex number (mathematics). A number which contains real numbers and imaginary numbers. See real number.
composite. Something made up of different materials combined in such a way that the characteristics of the resulting material are different from those of any of the components.
composite flight plan (air traffic control). A flight plan that specifies VFR operation on one portion of the flight and IFR operation on another.
composite propeller blade. A propeller blade made of a number of materials such as metal, graphite, glass, or aramid fibers, and foam.
composite route system (air traffic control). An organized oceanic route structure, incorporating reduced lateral spacing between routes, in which composite separation is authorized.