A new article on the Roberts Space Industries website has details on a new flight model they are getting set to introduce in the Star Citizen alpha. The update is very lengthy and detailed, so here is the overview of how this changes things:

The flashiest new feature is the additional flight modes: Precision, Space Combat Maneuvers (SCM), and Cruise. These are all IFCS profiles that focus ship behaviors toward the highly different goals of close tolerance adjustments, combat actions, and long distance flight respectively. Though you can only use one flight mode at a time, coupled/decoupled and the collection of flight assists can still be used to further customize handling.