What Is a Slot?

A Slot is a type of authorization used by an airport to allow an aircraft to land and take off at a specific time. These slots are an important tool for air traffic control at large, congested airports. They prevent repeated delays by multiple flights using the same airport. In a simple way, slots are like traffic lights at airports: they allow aircraft to enter and leave the airspace in a predictable sequence. But why do we need them?

The word slot is a noun dating from the late 14th century, and the meaning of “a hollow in the throat above the breastbone” comes from Old French esclot. The word is cognate to the Old Norse slod, which also has a similar meaning. Its meaning has changed over time, but it’s still used today. The word “slot” is also used to refer to an area between faceoff circles, where a player scores.

Although slots can be loose, they should be played only in casinos with active casino games. Bars and airports are notorious for their shady practices, so casinos in these locations may not have a single slot. It is best to play in casinos where the competition is fierce. If you want to play at a casino in a crowded area, the odds are low that it will be loose. And if you’re not in the mood for risk, there are plenty of loose slots in Las Vegas.