Akademik

1. the time period during which military and civilian agencies are prepared for an enemy air attack

2. the condition in which combat aircraft are airborne and ready for an operation

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aircraft in the Mideast are on air alert

3. the warning signal that begins a period of preparation for an enemy air attack

1. : the period during which military and civilian agencies are required to be in readiness for an enemy air attack; also : the warning signal that begins such a period

2. : combat or standby status of the aircraft, aircrew, and ground communications system that may have to repel the enemy air attack

1. the act of flying while waiting for combat orders or for enemy airplanes to appear.

2. the signal to take stations for such action.

[1940-45]

air alert,

1. a state of readiness for defense against enemy aircraft, when aircraft get into the air ready for immediate response to orders.

2. the signal to get aircraft into the air for such defense.