Crossword Genius

Too-early start for an airman (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

flier

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'for an airman' is the definition.
('flier' can be a synonym of 'airman')

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for flier that I've seen before include "Turkey perhaps?" , "Circular" , "Advertisement" , "Good start" , "Aviator" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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