Aviation works in English: pilots and air traffic controllers talk to each other in standard radio phrases, and manuals, checklists and weather reports are written in it. These terms are the words pilots, cabin crew, dispatchers and maintenance staff use every day, from the cockpit and the cabin to the apron and the hangar.
100 terms
10 topics
64 core terms
200 example sentences
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Aircraft & Systems
aircraft
noun
Meaning
Any machine that flies by being held up by the air, such as an airliner, a helicopter or a glider. In airline work it usually means the plane itself.
Where you use it
Much more common than 'plane' in manuals, ATC and official communication. Crews talk about the aircraft type, aircraft registration and aircraft change; ground staff say 'the aircraft is on stand'.
Examples
The aircraft has been changed, so we need a new seat plan for boarding.
Two aircraft are waiting at the holding point for departure.
Usage note
The plural is also 'aircraft': two aircraft, never 'aircrafts'.
Common phrases
aircraft type · aircraft registration · aircraft change · wide-body aircraft · board the aircraft
The area at the front of an aircraft where the pilots sit and operate the controls, instruments and radios.
Where you use it
Used by everyone, from passengers to pilots. Airlines and aircraft manufacturers often prefer 'flight deck' in manuals and announcements. The cockpit door stays locked in flight, and crew call before they enter.
Examples
The captain asked for two coffees to be brought to the cockpit after takeoff.
Before a cabin crew member enters the cockpit, they call the pilots on the interphone.
Usage note
'Flight deck' and 'cockpit' mean the same place; 'flight deck crew' and 'cockpit crew' both refer to the pilots.
Common phrases
cockpit door · cockpit crew · enter the cockpit · cockpit voice recorder · glass cockpit
Each of the two long surfaces on the sides of an aircraft that produce lift. On airliners the wings often carry the engines and hold most of the fuel.
Where you use it
Common in crew talk, walkarounds and passenger questions: left and right wing, wing root (where it joins the fuselage), wingtip, winglet, overwing exit. Engineers inspect the wings for damage, leaks and ice.
Examples
During the walkaround I noticed a small dent near the left wingtip.
All ice on the wings has to be removed before takeoff.
The machine that produces the power or thrust to move an aircraft. Most airliners use jet engines called turbofans, mounted under the wings or at the tail.
Where you use it
Engines are numbered from left to right as seen from the cockpit: engine one, engine two. Pilots start, shut down and monitor engines; engineers inspect them. Common phrases: engine start, engine failure, engine fire.
Examples
We shut down engine two after a high temperature warning.
The engineer checked the engine for bird damage after landing.
Usage note
For aircraft jet engines, pilots and engineers say 'engine', not 'motor'. In English 'motor' is used mostly for small electric motors, such as those in fans or pumps.
Common phrases
engine start · engine failure · shut down an engine · engine fire · engine number one
The main body of an aircraft, which holds the cockpit, the passenger cabin and the cargo holds. The wings and the tail are attached to it.
Where you use it
Used in technical and maintenance English: fuselage skin, forward fuselage, aft fuselage, fuselage damage. Pilots and engineers check it for dents and damage during the walkaround.
Examples
A catering truck hit the fuselage near the rear door.
The engineers found a small crack in the fuselage skin during the inspection.
Usage note
Pronounced 'FEW-suh-lahzh'; the ending sounds like the end of 'garage' in American English, not like 'age'.
The wheels, legs and brakes that support an aircraft on the ground. On most aircraft the gear folds up into the body or the wings after takeoff.
Where you use it
Pilots usually just say 'gear': 'gear up' after takeoff, 'gear down' on approach. There is a nose gear and a main gear. Engineers talk about gear doors, gear retraction and tyre changes.
Examples
The landing gear did not retract after takeoff, so we stayed low and returned.
Landing gear down, three green.
Usage note
'Landing gear' is normally uncountable: 'the landing gear is down', not 'the landing gears are down'. British English also uses 'undercarriage'.
Common phrases
landing gear down · retract the landing gear · nose gear · main gear · gear down and locked
Movable panels on the rear edge of the wings that extend to give more lift at low speed. They are used mainly for takeoff and landing.
Where you use it
Pilots select, extend and retract flaps in stages: 'flaps 1', 'flaps 5', 'flaps full'. Each setting has a maximum speed. Similar panels on the front edge of the wing are called slats.
Examples
Speed checked, flaps two, please.
We had a flap problem on approach and had to land at a higher speed.
Usage note
Pilots usually say the plural 'flaps', even for one setting: 'flaps two'. 'Flap' is used before another noun: 'flap setting', 'flap lever'.
Common phrases
flaps up · flaps full · extend the flaps · retract the flaps · flap setting
The forward force produced by an aircraft's engines that pushes it through the air. Pilots control it with the thrust levers.
Where you use it
Common phrases: takeoff thrust, climb thrust, idle thrust, reverse thrust and 'set thrust'. On jets the levers are called thrust levers; on propeller aircraft pilots usually say 'power' and 'throttle'.
Examples
After touchdown, the captain selected full reverse thrust because the runway was wet.
We used reduced takeoff thrust to save engine wear.
Usage note
The 'th' is said as in 'think', not as a plain t: 'thrust', not 'trust'.
The movable surface on the horizontal part of the tail that makes the nose go up or down. The pilot moves it by pulling or pushing the control column or sidestick.
Where you use it
One of the primary flight controls, together with the ailerons (roll) and the rudder (yaw); the elevator controls pitch. Engineers check its movement and free play during maintenance.
Examples
A jammed elevator is one of the most serious flight control failures.
During the flight control check, the first officer moved the sidestick to check full elevator travel.
Usage note
In American English 'elevator' is also a lift in a building. The context makes the meaning clear.
Common phrases
elevator control · elevator trim · jammed elevator · elevator travel
Auxiliary power unit: a small engine, usually in the tail, that provides electrical power and air for air conditioning and engine start when the main engines are not running.
Where you use it
Said as letters: A-P-U. Pilots start and shut down the APU and use 'APU bleed' for air. Some airports restrict APU use on stands, so ground power and pre-conditioned air are used instead.
Examples
The APU is inoperative, so we need a ground power unit and an air start unit.
We started the APU ten minutes before pushback to cool the cabin.
Common phrases
start the APU · APU bleed · APU shutdown · APU inoperative · APU fire
The moment or phase in which an aircraft speeds up along the runway and leaves the ground to begin a flight.
Where you use it
Used by pilots, controllers and cabin crew alike: takeoff clearance, takeoff speed, takeoff weight. Cabin crew are seated for takeoff and landing, and the captain may announce 'we are next for takeoff'.
Examples
We had a long takeoff run because the aircraft was close to its maximum weight.
Cabin crew, please be seated for takeoff.
Usage note
The noun is 'takeoff' (US) or 'take-off' (UK); the verb is two words: 'the aircraft took off at 09:40'.
Common phrases
takeoff clearance · takeoff run · rejected takeoff · takeoff weight · ready for takeoff
The final phase of a flight, in which the aircraft comes down onto the runway, touches the ground and slows to taxi speed.
Where you use it
Pilots discuss landing distance, landing weight and landing performance; the tower gives a landing clearance with 'cleared to land'. Passengers comment on a smooth or a hard landing. The verb is simply 'land'.
Examples
After a hard landing, the captain wrote it up in the technical log for an inspection.
Cabin crew, prepare for landing.
Usage note
Turkish 'iniş' can mean both the whole way down and the touchdown. In English, 'descent' is leaving the cruising level, and 'landing' is the last part on the runway.
Common phrases
smooth landing · hard landing · landing clearance · landing distance · prepare for landing
To move an aircraft slowly on the ground under its own power, for example from the parking stand to the runway or from the runway back to the stand.
Where you use it
A key word in calls with ground control: 'taxi to holding point runway 05 via Alpha'. The forms are taxi, taxied, taxiing (British English also writes taxying). Also used as a noun: taxi clearance, taxi time, taxi speed.
Examples
Fastair 345, taxi to holding point runway 23 via Bravo and Alpha.
We taxied for almost twenty minutes because of the queue for departure.
Usage note
Turkish speakers sometimes say 'make taxi', copying 'taksi yapmak'. In English the verb is just 'taxi': 'we taxied to the runway'.
Common phrases
taxi to the holding point · taxi via · taxi clearance · taxi time · taxi in
The phase of flight after the descent in which an aircraft is guided towards the runway it will land on, usually following a published procedure.
Where you use it
Pilots brief, fly and are cleared for an approach: an ILS approach, a visual approach, a stabilised approach. 'On final' means on the last straight part before landing. 'Approach' is also the name of the ATC unit: 'contact Approach 120.5'.
Examples
We briefed the ILS approach for runway 05 before starting our descent.
The approach was not stable at 1,000 feet, so the captain decided to go around.
Usage note
As a verb it takes no preposition: you 'approach the runway', not 'approach to the runway'. The noun does take 'to': 'the approach to runway 05'.
Common phrases
ILS approach · visual approach · stabilised approach · missed approach · cleared for the approach
The longest and usually level part of a flight, flown at a steady altitude and speed between the climb and the descent.
Where you use it
Used as a noun and a verb: 'in the cruise', 'we are cruising at flight level 370'. Common in crew talk and passenger announcements: cruising altitude, cruise speed. Most of the cabin service happens during the cruise.
Examples
We have now reached our cruising altitude of 37,000 feet.
Fuel burn in the cruise was lower than planned thanks to the tailwind.
Common phrases
cruising altitude · cruise speed · in the cruise · cruise level · cruise phase
A manoeuvre in which the pilots stop an approach, add power and climb away instead of landing, usually to try again or to go to another airport.
Where you use it
A normal, trained manoeuvre, not a failure. Reasons include an unstable approach, a blocked runway, wind shear or poor visibility. A typical callout is 'Go around, flaps!', and ATC may instruct 'Fastair 345, go around'.
Examples
We made a go-around because a vehicle was on the runway.
After the go-around, ATC gave us vectors for a second approach.
Usage note
Write the noun with a hyphen (a go-around) and the verb without one (we went around). 'Missed approach' is the published procedure flown after a go-around from an instrument approach.
Common phrases
make a go-around · initiate a go-around · go-around procedure · go-around thrust · go-around altitude
To gain height. In aviation the word also names the phase of flight between takeoff and cruise, when the aircraft goes up to its cruising level.
Where you use it
In ATC phraseology: 'climb to flight level 250', or in the US 'climb and maintain 6,000'. Pilots talk about the rate of climb, top of climb and 'expedite climb'. Also a noun: 'during the climb'.
Examples
Fastair 345, climb to flight level 240.
We could not climb above flight level 300 because the aircraft was too heavy.
Usage note
The b is silent: climb sounds like 'klaim'. The same is true for climbed and climbing.
Common phrases
climb to · rate of climb · top of climb · expedite climb · initial climb
The phase of flight in which an aircraft leaves its cruising level and goes down towards the destination before the approach begins.
Where you use it
Pilots plan the 'top of descent', the point where it starts, and call ATC with 'request descent'. The verb is 'descend': 'descend to flight level 120'. Passengers hear 'we have started our descent' in the announcement before landing.
Examples
Ladies and gentlemen, we have started our descent into Antalya.
Ankara Control, Fastair 345, request descent.
Usage note
Do not mix up 'descent' (noun, /dɪˈsent/), 'descend' (verb) and 'decent' (adjective meaning acceptable, /ˈdiːsənt/).
Common phrases
start the descent · top of descent · request descent · rate of descent · emergency descent
A racetrack-shaped path that an aircraft flies over a fixed point while it waits for clearance to continue, for example because of traffic or weather.
Where you use it
Often shortened to 'the hold' or 'holding': 'enter the hold', 'expect further clearance at 15:40'. Standard holds use right turns. Long holding uses up fuel and can end in a diversion.
Examples
We spent twenty minutes in a holding pattern because the runway was closed.
Fastair 345, enter the holding pattern over the VOR, expect further clearance in 15 minutes.
Common phrases
enter the holding pattern · leave the hold · holding fuel · holding delay · expect further clearance
The service that guides aircraft on the ground and in the air to keep them safely apart and moving in an orderly way. Controllers give instructions and clearances by radio.
Where you use it
Usually shortened to ATC, said as letters. A flight talks to several units in turn: delivery, ground, tower, approach and area control (centre). Pilots 'contact' the next unit when they are handed over.
Examples
Air traffic control asked us to reduce speed because of traffic ahead.
She has worked as an air traffic controller in Ankara for ten years.
Usage note
The person is an 'air traffic controller'; 'air traffic control' is the service or the unit. Pilots often just say 'ATC' or 'the controller'.
Common phrases
contact air traffic control · air traffic controller · ATC clearance · ATC delay · ATC instructions
Permission from air traffic control for an aircraft to do something specific, such as follow a route, take off, enter airspace, climb or land.
Where you use it
A clearance must be read back by the pilot. Before departure crews receive a route clearance, often by datalink; later come the takeoff, approach and landing clearances. Pilots request, receive, read back and follow clearances.
Examples
We are ready to start, but our clearance to Izmir has not come through yet.
The pilot read back the clearance, and the controller noticed the wrong altitude.
Usage note
In everyday English 'clearance' also means customs clearance or a stock sale. In aviation it can also mean distance from an obstacle, as in 'wingtip clearance'.
Common phrases
request clearance · departure clearance · landing clearance · read back the clearance · ATC clearance
A radio word meaning 'I have received all of your last message'. It confirms that you heard something; it does not mean yes, and it does not mean you will do it.
Where you use it
Used for information that needs no action, such as traffic or weather. It is not enough for a clearance: clearances and instructions must be read back. A question that needs 'affirm' or 'negative' is never answered with 'roger'.
Examples
Controller: 'Expect a short delay for departure.' Pilot: 'Roger, Fastair 345.'
Saying roger to a clearance is not a readback; you have to repeat the key parts.
Usage note
The word comes from an old radio spelling alphabet in which 'Roger' stood for R, short for 'received'.
Common phrases
roger, standing by · roger, copied · roger that (informal)
Repeating an ATC clearance or instruction back to the controller, so that the controller can confirm it was heard and understood correctly.
Where you use it
Safety-critical items must be read back: runway, heading, altitude or level, speed, frequency, squawk code and 'hold short'. Pilots end the readback with their call sign. A controller corrects a wrong readback with 'negative, I say again'.
Examples
Fastair 345, negative, your readback was incorrect: climb to flight level 240, not 220.
The controller did not notice the error in the pilot's readback.
Usage note
Write the noun as one word (a readback) and the verb as two (please read back the clearance).
Common phrases
correct readback · incorrect readback · read back the clearance · readback error · full readback
The name and number that identify an aircraft on the radio, such as the airline's radio name plus a flight number. It is used in every transmission.
Where you use it
Airline call signs are not always the company name. Private aircraft use their registration, spelled with the phonetic alphabet. Pilots end readbacks with their call sign, and controllers warn about similar call signs on the same frequency.
Examples
Fastair 345, check your call sign; that instruction was for Fastair 354.
Our call sign today is different from the flight number on the passengers' tickets.
Usage note
Also written 'callsign'. Under ICAO rules a pilot may use an abbreviated call sign only after the controller has used it first.
Common phrases
similar call signs · full call sign · call sign confusion · abbreviated call sign
The radio channel, given as a number in megahertz, that pilots and a particular ATC unit use to talk to each other.
Where you use it
Pilots are told to 'contact' or 'monitor' a frequency, and they change frequency, stay on frequency or leave the frequency. In ICAO phraseology the decimal point is said 'decimal': 'one two one decimal three'.
Examples
We heard nothing after changing frequency, so we went back to the previous one.
The frequency is very busy; wait for a gap before you call.
Usage note
American pilots often say 'point' instead of 'decimal': 'one two one point three'.
Common phrases
change frequency · monitor the frequency · busy frequency · frequency change approved · stay on frequency
The standard set of code words used on the radio for the letters of the alphabet, such as Alfa for A, Bravo for B and Charlie for C.
Where you use it
Used to spell call signs, registrations, taxiways, waypoints and passenger names clearly on the radio or phone. Also called the ICAO or NATO alphabet. ICAO spells two words differently from normal English: Alfa and Juliett.
Examples
Our instructor tested us on the phonetic alphabet before we were allowed to use the radio.
In the phonetic alphabet, the surname Kaya is Kilo, Alfa, Yankee, Alfa.
Usage note
Numbers have special pronunciations too: 3 is 'tree', 4 'fower', 5 'fife' and 9 'niner'.
Common phrases
spell with the phonetic alphabet · ICAO phonetic alphabet · NATO phonetic alphabet
The ATC phrase that gives an aircraft permission to start its takeoff run on a specific runway. It is normally given by the tower controller.
Where you use it
A full call sounds like this: 'Fastair 345, wind 040 degrees 10 knots, runway 05, cleared for takeoff.' The pilot reads it back with the runway. Before this, the aircraft may have been told to 'line up and wait'.
Examples
Runway 05, cleared for takeoff, Fastair 345.
The instructor reminded us that lining up does not mean we are cleared for takeoff.
Usage note
Since the 1977 Tenerife accident, the word 'takeoff' is used on the radio only in the clearance itself or when cancelling it. At other times pilots and controllers say 'departure', for example 'ready for departure'.
Common phrases
cleared for takeoff runway 05 · takeoff clearance · cancel takeoff clearance · line up and wait
The standard radio phrase for asking someone to repeat all or part of their last message.
Where you use it
Used when a message is unclear or blocked by another transmission. It can be specific: 'say again your level', 'say again all after heading'. Controllers also use 'I say again' when they repeat something important.
Examples
Say again the frequency for Approach, Fastair 345.
Two aircraft called at the same time, so the controller asked us to say again.
Usage note
'Repeat' is avoided in standard phraseology. A common explanation is that on military radio 'repeat' can mean 'fire again'.
Common phrases
say again all after · say again all before · I say again · say again your level
A radio word, short for 'will comply', meaning 'I have understood your message and I will do what you ask'.
Where you use it
Used for instructions that do not need a full readback, such as 'report passing flight level 100' or 'call me when ready'. Clearances with levels, headings or runways still need a full readback.
Examples
Controller: 'Report established on the localiser.' Pilot: 'Wilco, Fastair 345.'
Many students say 'roger wilco', but wilco alone is enough.
Usage note
'Roger wilco' is redundant, because wilco already includes the meaning of roger.
Common phrases
wilco, Fastair 345 · wilco, will report · reply with wilco
An ATC instruction to stop before a runway or another point and not go past it until you receive a clearance.
Where you use it
It must always be read back: 'Hold short runway 23, Fastair 345.' Aircraft stop at the holding point, marked by yellow lines and sometimes by red stop bar lights. Crossing it without a clearance is a runway incursion.
Examples
Fastair 345, taxi to holding point runway 23 via Alpha, hold short of runway 18.
We were told to hold short, but the first officer read it back as 'cross'.
Common phrases
hold short of runway · holding point · hold short instruction · stop bar
To taxi onto the runway and stop on the centreline in the takeoff position, ready to go but not yet cleared for takeoff.
Where you use it
ATC says 'line up and wait' (ICAO and US) or simply 'line up runway 05'. It saves time when the runway is busy. Pilots complete the last items of the before takeoff checklist while they line up.
Examples
Fastair 345, runway 05, line up and wait.
We lined up and waited almost three minutes for the landing traffic to vacate.
Usage note
'Line up' does not allow you to take off. The takeoff run starts only after the words 'cleared for takeoff'.
Common phrases
line up and wait · line up runway 05 · line up behind · lined up on the runway
To set a four-digit code on the aircraft's transponder so that controllers can identify it on radar. As a noun, the code itself.
Where you use it
Controllers say 'squawk 4721' or 'squawk ident'. Three codes have fixed meanings worldwide: 7500 for unlawful interference (hijacking), 7600 for radio failure and 7700 for an emergency.
Examples
Fastair 345, squawk 4721.
During the emergency we squawked 7700 and declared a Mayday.
Usage note
In general English 'squawk' is the loud, harsh cry of a bird. In American maintenance slang it can also mean a defect reported by the pilot.
The standard radio word for 'yes' in ICAO phraseology, used to answer a question or confirm information. The opposite is 'negative'.
Where you use it
Used instead of everyday 'yes' or 'OK'. American and military radio often use 'affirmative' instead. Pilots answer questions such as 'confirm you have information Bravo' with 'Affirm'.
Examples
Controller: 'Fastair 345, confirm you have information Bravo.' Pilot: 'Affirm, Fastair 345.'
He answered 'affirm' to the question, but he had misunderstood it.
Usage note
Stress the second syllable: a-FIRM. A yes/no question is never answered with 'roger'.
Common phrases
affirm, Fastair 345 · answer affirm · affirm or negative
A long, specially prepared strip at an airport that aircraft use to take off and land. Each runway is named by a number based on its magnetic direction.
Where you use it
Heard in almost every radio call. Runway 05 points roughly 050 degrees, and the same strip used the other way is runway 23. Parallel runways get L, C or R (left, centre, right). You enter, cross, vacate or hold short of a runway.
Examples
Fastair 345, vacate the runway via taxiway Charlie.
The runway in use is 23 left, with a light crosswind from the north.
Usage note
In ICAO countries runway 05 is said 'runway zero five'; in the United States the leading zero is dropped, so it is 'runway five'.
Common phrases
runway in use · vacate the runway · cross the runway · runway incursion · wet runway
The numbered area in an airport terminal where passengers wait and then board an aircraft, either through a jet bridge or by bus.
Where you use it
Used by passengers, ground staff and crews: gate number, gate change, gate agent, 'at the gate'. Pilots say 'we are returning to the gate' when they go back before takeoff. Strictly, the place where the aircraft parks is the stand.
Examples
Boarding for this flight will start at gate 214 in ten minutes.
We returned to the gate to offload a passenger who felt unwell.
Common phrases
gate number · gate change · boarding gate · gate agent · return to the gate
A paved path at an airport that connects the runways with the aprons, stands and hangars. Aircraft use taxiways to move around on the ground.
Where you use it
Taxiways are named with letters and numbers, spoken with the phonetic alphabet: 'taxiway Alpha', 'B2' (Bravo two). At night they show green centreline lights and blue edge lights. A rapid exit taxiway lets aircraft leave the runway at higher speed.
Examples
Taxiway Bravo is closed for works, so expect to taxi via Charlie.
We took the wrong taxiway in the fog and had to stop and ask Ground.
The area of an airport where aircraft are parked, loaded, refuelled and boarded. It is separate from the runways and the taxiways.
Where you use it
British and ICAO English; American English usually says 'ramp'. Ground staff talk about apron safety, apron control and working 'on the apron'. On the apron, vehicles give way to aircraft.
Examples
Nobody is allowed on the apron without a high-visibility vest.
The aircraft is parked on the remote apron, so passengers will be taken by bus.
Usage note
In everyday English an apron is the cloth you wear when cooking. The aviation meaning is unrelated.
Common phrases
apron control · on the apron · apron safety · remote apron · apron area
A marked parking position on the apron where an aircraft is parked for boarding, loading, refuelling and other ground services.
Where you use it
Stands are numbered: 'stand 12', a remote stand, a contact stand (next to the terminal with a jet bridge). Controllers and ground staff say 'taxi to stand 12' or 'the aircraft is on stand'. A marshaller or a docking system guides the aircraft in.
Examples
Fastair 345, taxi to stand 27 via Kilo.
Our stand is still occupied, so we are waiting on the taxiway.
Usage note
Passengers talk about gates; pilots and ground staff talk about stands. American English often uses 'gate' for both.
Common phrases
parking stand · remote stand · contact stand · on stand · stand allocation
A movable, covered walkway that connects the terminal building to the aircraft door, so passengers can board without going outside.
Where you use it
American English says 'jet bridge' or 'jetway'; British English says 'air bridge' or 'airbridge'. Ground staff dock it to the aircraft and pull it back before pushback. The official name is passenger boarding bridge.
Examples
The jet bridge is not working, so we will use stairs and buses.
Do not open the door until the jet bridge is fully in position.
Common phrases
dock the jet bridge · jet bridge operator · air bridge · pull back the jet bridge
The procedure in which a tug pushes an aircraft backwards out of its parking stand, because airliners do not normally reverse under their own power.
Where you use it
Pilots 'request pushback' from ground or apron control, which answers 'pushback approved', often with a direction such as 'facing east'. The ground crew talks to the cockpit by headset during the push. The verb is 'push back'.
Examples
Ground, Fastair 345, stand 12, request pushback.
Pushback was delayed because the tug driver was handling another aircraft.
All the services an aircraft and its passengers need at the airport between landing and departure, such as check-in, baggage loading, cleaning and pushback.
Where you use it
Often provided by a separate company, called the 'handling agent' or 'handler'. Ramp agents, loaders and turnaround coordinators share the work. The services are listed in a ground handling agreement.
Examples
Ground handling at this airport is slow, so we plan a longer turnaround.
She started her career in ground handling as a ramp agent.
The process, and the time it takes, to prepare an aircraft for its next flight after it arrives: unloading, cleaning, catering, refuelling and boarding.
Where you use it
Short-haul airlines aim for a quick turnaround, sometimes under 30 minutes. Crews and ground staff talk about a 'tight turnaround' and 'turnaround time'; pilots often just say 'the turn'.
Examples
We have a 35-minute turnaround in Izmir, so there is no time for a long break.
Removing ice, snow or frost from an aircraft on the ground before takeoff, usually by spraying it with a heated fluid.
Where you use it
Done on the stand or on a special de-icing pad. A second fluid (anti-icing) stops new ice from forming for a limited 'holdover time', and the aircraft has to take off before that time runs out. Crews call 'request de-icing'.
Examples
We are waiting for de-icing, so expect a delay of about 30 minutes.
The de-icing crew sprayed both wings and the tail.
Usage note
American English often writes 'deicing'. De-icing removes ice that is already there; anti-icing prevents new ice.
Common phrases
de-icing pad · de-icing fluid · request de-icing · holdover time · anti-icing
The team of trained staff who look after the safety and comfort of passengers in the cabin during a flight.
Where you use it
British and international English; American English prefers 'flight attendants'. Used for the group ('the cabin crew are boarding') and in commands from the cockpit: 'Cabin crew, seats for takeoff.' One person is a cabin crew member.
Examples
The cabin crew completed the safety checks before the passengers arrived.
Cabin crew, please take your seats for landing.
Usage note
'Stewardess' and 'hostess' sound old-fashioned in English. Use 'cabin crew member' or 'flight attendant' for any gender.
Common phrases
cabin crew member · senior cabin crew · cabin crew training · brief the cabin crew
The process of passengers getting on an aircraft, from the first call at the gate until the doors are closed.
Where you use it
Gate staff start and close boarding; cabin crew greet passengers, check boarding passes and help with bags. The purser tells the captain 'boarding completed' and confirms the passenger figures.
Examples
Boarding is delayed because the cleaners have not finished on board.
Captain, boarding is complete: 172 passengers and two infants.
Usage note
The verb is 'board': 'passengers board the aircraft'. No preposition is needed, so avoid 'board to the aircraft'.
An illuminated sign above the passenger seats that tells passengers to fasten their seat belts and stay seated. The pilots switch it on and off.
Where you use it
Mostly used in announcements and crew talk: 'The captain has switched on the seat belt sign.' It is on for taxi, takeoff, landing and turbulence, and a chime sounds when it changes.
Examples
The seat belt sign is still on, so please remain seated.
As soon as the seat belt sign went off, a queue formed at the front toilet.
Usage note
Also written 'seatbelt sign'. Its full name is the 'fasten seat belt sign'.
Common phrases
switch on the seat belt sign · the seat belt sign is on · the seat belt sign goes off · fasten seat belt sign
A door or window exit that passengers and crew use to leave the aircraft quickly in an emergency. Some are normal doors; others are smaller exits over the wings.
Where you use it
Cabin crew brief passengers seated in emergency exit rows and check that they are willing and able to help. The safety demonstration points out the nearest exits. Typical phrases: exit row, overwing exit, floor path lighting.
Examples
You are seated next to an emergency exit; may I explain how it works?
Please do not put any bags near the emergency exits.
The short presentation before takeoff in which cabin crew, or a video, show passengers how to use the seat belts, exits, oxygen masks and life vests.
Where you use it
Often shortened to 'safety demo'. Cabin crew perform it while the aircraft is taxiing or still at the gate; larger aircraft usually show a safety video. The safety card in the seat pocket repeats the information.
Examples
Ladies and gentlemen, please give us your attention for the safety demonstration.
The video system failed, so we did a manual safety demonstration.
Common phrases
perform the safety demonstration · manual safety demonstration · safety video · safety card
The kitchen area of an aircraft, where cabin crew store, heat and prepare food and drinks. Larger aircraft have several galleys.
Where you use it
Crew say forward galley and aft galley. It contains ovens, trolleys, water boilers and coffee makers. Galley equipment must be secured for taxi, takeoff and landing.
Examples
The oven in the aft galley is not working; please write it in the cabin log.
Secure the galley, we are starting our descent.
Usage note
The same word is used for the kitchen on a ship. Passengers might say 'kitchen', but crew always say 'galley'.
A storage compartment above the passenger seats for hand luggage and coats. The bins must be closed and latched before takeoff and landing.
Where you use it
American English says 'overhead bin', British English 'overhead locker'; manuals may say 'overhead stowage compartment'. Cabin crew check that the bins are closed and help passengers find space.
Examples
The overhead bins are full, so we need to send the last few bags to the hold.
Please be careful when you open the overhead bin, as items may have moved during the flight.
Common phrases
overhead bin space · close the overhead bins · overhead locker · the overhead bins are full
A mask that supplies oxygen to the nose and mouth when cabin pressure is lost at high altitude. Passenger masks drop automatically from above the seats.
Where you use it
Passenger masks are shown in every safety demonstration. Pilots have quick-donning masks in the cockpit. The well-known instruction is to put on your own mask before helping others.
Examples
If the oxygen masks drop, pull one towards you and place it over your nose and mouth.
The pilots put on their oxygen masks as soon as the cabin altitude warning sounded.
Common phrases
put on the oxygen mask · the oxygen masks drop · quick-donning oxygen mask · portable oxygen
An inflatable vest stored under or near each seat that keeps a person floating if the aircraft has to land on water.
Where you use it
Shown in the safety demonstration; British English usually says 'life jacket'. Passengers are told to inflate it only when leaving the aircraft, because an inflated vest makes it hard to move through the cabin.
Examples
Your life vest is under your seat; do not inflate it until you leave the aircraft.
During the pre-flight check, one life vest was missing from row 14.
Common phrases
put on your life vest · inflate the life vest · life jacket · infant life vest
The senior cabin crew member who leads the cabin team on a flight and is the main link between the cabin and the cockpit.
Where you use it
Airlines use different titles: purser, chief purser, cabin manager, senior cabin crew member (SCCM) or in-charge. The purser leads the cabin briefing, reports 'cabin secure' to the cockpit and coordinates the crew in emergencies.
Examples
The purser told the captain that the cabin was secure for takeoff.
Any problem with a passenger should be reported to the purser first.
Usage note
On ships the purser is the officer in charge of money and passenger services; airlines borrowed the title from shipping.
Common phrases
chief purser · the purser's briefing · inform the purser · purser's station
To check something a second time, usually by another person, so that mistakes are caught. For doors, each crew member checks the opposite door after arming.
Where you use it
Best known from the command 'Cabin crew, arm doors and cross-check'; after it, the slide inflates automatically if a door is opened. Pilots also cross-check altitudes, settings and data entered into the flight computer.
Examples
Cabin crew, arm doors and cross-check.
The captain cross-checked the fuel figures before signing the load sheet.
Common phrases
arm doors and cross-check · cross-check the doors · cross-check the settings · cross-check complete
Irregular, often sudden movement of the air that makes an aircraft bump, shake or drop. It is usually reported as light, moderate or severe.
Where you use it
Pilots ask ATC and other aircraft for reports about turbulence and request a different level to avoid it. Cabin crew hear it with commands such as 'Cabin crew, take your seats' and explain it to passengers in announcements.
Examples
We are expecting some turbulence for the next twenty minutes, so the seat belt sign is on.
The greatest distance at which objects can be clearly seen and identified, reported in metres or kilometres in most countries and in statute miles in the US.
Where you use it
Found in METARs, ATIS broadcasts and approach briefings. Low visibility from fog or snow can delay or divert flights. The value measured along the runway itself is called runway visual range (RVR).
Examples
Visibility at Istanbul is down to 400 metres in fog.
Low visibility procedures are in force, so expect longer taxi times.
A wind that blows across the runway from the side instead of along it, which makes takeoff and landing more difficult.
Where you use it
Every aircraft type has a maximum demonstrated crosswind, and airlines set their own limits. Pilots work out the crosswind component from the wind report and talk about a 'crosswind landing'.
Examples
The crosswind was 25 knots, which is close to our limit on a wet runway.
She made a very good crosswind landing in gusty conditions.
A wind that blows against the direction an aircraft is moving. It lowers the ground speed but helps the aircraft take off and land in a shorter distance.
Where you use it
Aircraft take off and land into the wind whenever possible, and the runway in use is chosen with this in mind. In the cruise, strong headwinds add flight time and fuel burn. Pilots calculate the headwind component.
Examples
We have a 60-knot headwind, so we will land about twenty minutes late.
The headwind component on runway 23 is 12 knots.
Usage note
The opposite is a 'tailwind', which blows from behind. A tailwind shortens flight time in the cruise but makes takeoff and landing distances longer.
Common phrases
strong headwind · headwind component · into a headwind · 60-knot headwind
A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, which can make an aircraft quickly lose speed and height close to the ground.
Where you use it
Most dangerous during takeoff and approach, often near thunderstorms (microbursts). Many aircraft have a windshear warning, and crews fly a trained escape manoeuvre. Pilots report it: 'wind shear on final, loss of 15 knots'.
Examples
We encountered wind shear at 500 feet and lost almost 20 knots.
The tower is reporting wind shear on final approach to runway 23.
Usage note
Also written as one word, 'windshear', especially in aircraft warnings and manuals.
A routine weather report for an airport, issued every 30 or 60 minutes in a short code: wind, visibility, weather, cloud, temperature and pressure.
Where you use it
Pilots and dispatchers read the METARs for the departure, destination and alternate airports. A TAF is a forecast written in a similar code, and a special report issued between routine ones is a SPECI.
Examples
The latest METAR shows fog with visibility 300 metres.
Can you read me the METAR for Antalya before we start?
Usage note
A typical METAR reads 'LTAI 121250Z 24010KT 9999 FEW030 28/12 Q1012': Antalya, wind 240 degrees at 10 knots, visibility 10 km or more, a few clouds at 3,000 feet, 28°C, QNH 1012.
Common phrases
latest METAR · read the METAR · METAR and TAF · decode a METAR
The build-up of ice on an aircraft's wings, engines or sensors in flight. It happens in visible moisture, such as cloud or rain, at temperatures around or below freezing.
Where you use it
Reported as light, moderate or severe. Pilots switch on engine and wing anti-ice in icing conditions and may ask ATC for a different level to get out of it.
Examples
Fastair 345, we are in moderate icing at flight level 120, request climb.
Severe icing was forecast in the clouds over the mountains.
The height above the ground of the lowest layer of cloud that covers more than half of the sky. A low ceiling can make an approach impossible.
Where you use it
In weather reports the ceiling is the lowest broken (BKN) or overcast (OVC) layer. Pilots compare it with the approach minimums. The word also means the highest altitude an aircraft can reach: its 'service ceiling'.
Examples
The ceiling is 200 feet, which is right at our minimums for this approach.
With a low ceiling and heavy rain, we briefed a possible go-around.
Usage note
In everyday English a ceiling is the top surface of a room. It is pronounced 'SEE-ling'; the c sounds like s.
Common phrases
low ceiling · cloud ceiling · service ceiling · ceiling and visibility
A very tall, dense thunderstorm cloud that can bring lightning, hail, heavy rain, severe turbulence, icing and wind shear. Pilots avoid flying into it.
Where you use it
Usually shortened to CB, said 'Charlie Bravo' or 'C-B'. Pilots spot CBs on the weather radar and ask ATC to deviate around them: 'request deviation 20 miles left of track due to weather'.
Examples
There is a line of cumulonimbus clouds ahead; we will need to deviate around them.
The METAR reports cumulonimbus to the south of the airport.
The vertical distance of an aircraft above mean sea level, usually given in feet. Height, by contrast, is measured from the ground or the airport.
Where you use it
Used in ATC instructions and cockpit talk: 'descend to altitude 4,000 feet', 'maintain altitude', 'cruising altitude'. Higher up, flight levels are used instead.
Examples
Fastair 345, descend to altitude 4,000 feet, QNH 1015.
We lost about 300 feet of altitude in the turbulence.
Usage note
In ICAO usage, 'altitude' is above sea level, 'height' is above the ground or the airport, and 'elevation' is the height of a point on the ground, such as an airport.
The direction in which the nose of an aircraft is pointing, given in degrees from 001 to 360 and usually measured from magnetic north.
Where you use it
Controllers give headings as radar vectors: 'turn left heading 270'. Each digit is spoken separately: 'heading two seven zero'. Pilots set the heading on the autopilot panel and read it back.
Examples
Fastair 345, turn right heading 090, descend to flight level 120.
Our heading was 180, but the strong wind pushed our track to the east.
Usage note
'Heading' is where the nose points; 'track' is the actual path over the ground. With a crosswind the two are different.
A cruising level used above the transition altitude, measured with the standard pressure setting of 1013 hPa and given in hundreds of feet: FL350 is about 35,000 feet.
Where you use it
Written FL350 and said 'flight level three five zero'. Pilots set the standard pressure (STD) when they climb through the transition altitude, so that all aircraft measure their levels in the same way.
Examples
Fastair 345, climb to flight level 350.
We asked for a lower flight level to get out of the turbulence.
The speed of an aircraft relative to the air around it, which is what keeps it flying. Whenever there is wind, it is different from the ground speed.
Where you use it
Pilots use indicated airspeed (IAS) to fly the aircraft and true airspeed (TAS) for navigation, both in knots. At high levels the Mach number is used. ATC gives speed instructions such as 'reduce speed to 210 knots'.
Examples
Our airspeed was 250 knots, but with the headwind our ground speed was only 190.
Unreliable airspeed indications can be caused by a blocked pitot tube.
Usage note
Turkish 'hız' is often simply translated as 'speed', but in the cockpit 'airspeed' and 'ground speed' are two different things.
The unit of speed used in aviation and at sea: one nautical mile per hour, which is about 1.85 kilometres per hour.
Where you use it
Used for airspeed, ground speed and wind: 'wind 270 degrees 15 knots'. Written kt or kts. A nautical mile (NM) is 1,852 metres and is used for distances on charts.
Examples
The wind is gusting up to 35 knots, which is above our crosswind limit.
Fastair 345, reduce speed to 180 knots.
Usage note
The k is silent: 'knot' sounds like 'not'. Do not say 'knots per hour'; a knot is already a speed.
A system that flies the aircraft automatically, holding a selected heading, altitude, speed or route, while the pilots monitor it.
Where you use it
Pilots engage and disconnect the autopilot, often written AP; speed is controlled by the autothrust or autothrottle. In low visibility the autopilot can also fly an automatic landing.
Examples
I'll engage the autopilot passing 1,000 feet.
The autopilot disconnected in turbulence, so the captain flew manually.
Common phrases
engage the autopilot · disconnect the autopilot · autopilot on · autopilot off · fly manually
A fixed point in the sky, defined by coordinates, that aircraft use to build and follow a route. Most waypoints have five-letter names that can be pronounced.
Where you use it
Controllers clear aircraft 'direct to' a waypoint to shorten the route. Pilots enter waypoints in the flight management system (FMS) and report passing them. Some waypoints are placed on radio navigation beacons.
Examples
ATC cleared us direct to a waypoint near the coast, which saved ten minutes.
Check that the waypoints in the FMS match the flight plan.
Common phrases
direct to a waypoint · enter a waypoint · next waypoint · waypoint name · fly-over waypoint
Instrument landing system: radio signals from the ground that guide an aircraft left-right and up-down to the runway, so it can land in low cloud and poor visibility.
Where you use it
Said as letters: I-L-S. It has two parts: the localiser (left-right guidance) and the glideslope or glide path (vertical guidance). Pilots are 'cleared ILS approach runway 05' and report 'established on the localiser'. Categories I, II and III allow lower and lower minimums.
Examples
The ILS for runway 23 is out of service, so we will fly an RNP approach.
In this fog, only crews and aircraft approved for CAT III ILS approaches can land.
Usage note
British spelling is 'localiser', American spelling 'localizer'.
Common phrases
ILS approach · fly the ILS · ILS out of service · CAT III ILS · established on the ILS
A radio device on the aircraft that answers signals from ATC radar by sending back a code and, usually, the aircraft's altitude and identity.
Where you use it
Pilots set the code given by ATC (the squawk) and switch the transponder on before entering the runway. Modes include Mode C (altitude) and Mode S (selective, with more data). Collision avoidance systems (TCAS) also rely on it.
Examples
Fastair 345, check your transponder; we are not receiving your altitude.
The engineers replaced the transponder before the aircraft was released.
Common phrases
transponder code · set the transponder · transponder failure · Mode S transponder
The pressure setting that makes an altimeter show altitude above mean sea level. With QNH set, an altimeter on the ground shows the airport's elevation.
Where you use it
Given in hectopascals in most countries ('QNH 1013') and as an 'altimeter setting' in inches of mercury in the US ('altimeter 29.92'). Pilots set it below the transition level and read it back. QFE is the setting that shows height above the airport.
Examples
Fastair 345, descend to altitude 5,000 feet, QNH 1009.
Make sure both altimeters are set to the new QNH before the approach.
Usage note
QNH is one of the old three-letter Q codes from radio telegraphy; it is not short for English words.
The visual check of the outside of an aircraft before a flight, in which a pilot or an engineer walks around it looking for damage, leaks or anything unusual.
Where you use it
Pilots 'do the walkaround' before each flight, checking tyres, brakes, engines, probes, doors and the fuselage. Also called the exterior inspection or pre-flight inspection; some write it 'walk-around'.
Examples
The first officer found a hydraulic leak near the nose gear during the walkaround.
It was raining heavily, but I still did a full walkaround.
Common phrases
do the walkaround · pre-flight walkaround · walkaround check · exterior inspection
A fault in a part or system of an aircraft that must be recorded and then either repaired or formally deferred before the next flight.
Where you use it
Crews report or 'write up' defects in the technical log; engineers rectify or defer them. A deferred defect is allowed under the MEL for a limited time. British engineers also say 'snag'.
Examples
Please enter the defect in the technical log before you leave the aircraft.
The defect was deferred under the MEL, so the flight can go ahead.
Usage note
The noun is stressed on the first syllable (DEE-fect). The verb 'defect' (de-FECT) means to leave your country or side and is unrelated.
Common phrases
report a defect · rectify a defect · deferred defect · defect report · write up a defect
The official record kept on board in which crews write down defects and engineers record maintenance work, so the aircraft's condition is always documented.
Where you use it
Usually called the 'tech log'. Pilots check it before accepting the aircraft and complete it after the flight. Engineers sign the certificate of release to service in it. Many airlines now use an electronic tech log.
Examples
Before signing for the aircraft, the captain read through the technical log.
There is an open item in the technical log about the cabin pressure controller.
Common phrases
tech log entry · write up in the technical log · sign the technical log · electronic technical log
Routine checks and small repairs done at the airport between flights, such as daily checks, wheel changes and fixing minor defects, so the aircraft can keep flying.
Where you use it
Done on the apron or at the gate, often under time pressure. Heavier work is done in a hangar as base maintenance. Common phrases: transit check, daily check, line engineer, line station.
Examples
Line maintenance changed the wheel in forty minutes, so we only had a short delay.
He worked in line maintenance for five years before moving to the engine shop.
Common phrases
line maintenance engineer · line maintenance station · transit check · daily check · base maintenance
Minimum equipment list: an approved document that shows which equipment may be inoperative for a flight to depart, under what conditions and for how long.
Where you use it
Each airline writes its MEL from the manufacturer's master list (MMEL). Engineers and pilots check whether a defect can be deferred under it. Inoperative items get an 'INOP' placard and a time limit category (A, B, C or D).
Examples
The MEL allows us to fly with one air conditioning pack inoperative, but with a lower maximum level.
Check the MEL before you accept the aircraft.
Common phrases
MEL item · dispatch under the MEL · MEL category · MEL restriction · check the MEL
In a safe condition to fly and meeting all the technical and legal requirements for its type. The related noun is airworthiness.
Where you use it
Used in maintenance, regulation and safety reports: 'the aircraft was airworthy', 'certificate of airworthiness', 'continuing airworthiness'. The opposite is 'unairworthy'. After maintenance, certifying staff sign to confirm the aircraft is fit for service.
Examples
With fuel leaking from the wing, the aircraft is not airworthy until it is repaired.
The authority reviews the airworthiness records of each aircraft every year.
To look for the cause of a technical problem step by step and then fix it, usually by following the manufacturer's procedures.
Where you use it
Engineers troubleshoot faults with the troubleshooting manual (TSM) and the fault messages from the aircraft's computers. Pilots may troubleshoot simple faults in flight by following procedures. The noun is 'troubleshooting'.
Examples
The engineers are troubleshooting the hydraulic warning, so the departure time is unknown.
It took two hours to troubleshoot an intermittent fault in the cabin lighting.
The systems that use fluid under high pressure to move heavy parts such as the flight controls, landing gear, flaps and brakes.
Where you use it
Airliners have two or three independent hydraulic systems, so the aircraft stays controllable if one fails. Pilots talk about losing a hydraulic system and low hydraulic pressure; engineers check fluid levels and look for leaks.
Examples
After the hydraulic failure, our landing distance was much longer.
The engineers found a hydraulic leak behind the main gear.
Usage note
The adjective is 'hydraulic' (hydraulic pump, hydraulic leak); 'hydraulics' is the noun for the system as a whole.
Common phrases
hydraulic system · hydraulic pressure · hydraulic leak · hydraulic fluid · loss of hydraulics
Aircraft on ground: a situation in which an aircraft cannot fly because of a technical problem, so parts and engineers are needed urgently.
Where you use it
Said as letters: A-O-G. Often used before a noun: AOG part, AOG situation, AOG desk. Suppliers give AOG orders the highest priority and often send the parts by special courier.
Examples
We have an AOG in Trabzon; the new brake unit is coming on the first flight tomorrow.
Our AOG desk works 24 hours a day.
Common phrases
AOG situation · AOG part · AOG desk · go AOG · AOG team
The international radio distress call, used when an aircraft or ship is in grave and immediate danger and needs help at once. It is said three times.
Where you use it
Used for situations such as a fire, a serious engine failure or a dangerously low fuel state. An aircraft in distress has priority over all other traffic. The matching transponder code is 7700.
To get everyone off an aircraft or out of a building quickly because staying is dangerous, for example because of fire or smoke.
Where you use it
The captain orders an evacuation, often with the command 'Evacuate, evacuate'. Cabin crew open the exits, check conditions outside and shout commands to passengers. Aircraft types are certified to be evacuated within 90 seconds using half of the exits.
Examples
The captain decided to evacuate the aircraft after smoke appeared in the cabin.
All 180 passengers were evacuated safely using the slides.
Usage note
You evacuate a place or people: 'evacuate the aircraft', 'passengers were evacuated'. Some airlines call a calmer, planned exit through the normal doors a 'rapid disembarkation'.
Common phrases
evacuate the aircraft · order an evacuation · emergency evacuation · evacuation command · evacuate passengers
To fly to a different airport from the planned destination, for example because of bad weather, a medical emergency or a technical problem.
Where you use it
The airport chosen in advance for this is the 'alternate'. Pilots say 'we are diverting to Ankara', and the noun is 'diversion'. After a diversion, dispatch, ground handling and passengers all need new plans.
Examples
Because of fog in Istanbul, we had to divert to Ankara.
The flight diverted when a passenger had a heart attack over the sea.
Common phrases
divert to an alternate · diversion airport · decide to divert · weather diversion · medical diversion
The international radio urgency call, used when there is a problem that affects safety but does not need immediate help. It is said three times.
Where you use it
Used, for example, for a sick passenger, a minor technical failure or uncertainty about position. It is one step below Mayday. The call starts 'Pan-pan, pan-pan, pan-pan', followed by the call sign and the problem.
Examples
Pan-pan, pan-pan, pan-pan, Fastair 345, we have a sick passenger and request priority landing.
The crew declared pan-pan after one of the hydraulic systems failed.
Usage note
It comes from the French word 'panne', meaning a breakdown.
Common phrases
declare pan-pan · pan-pan call · pan-pan medical · upgrade to Mayday
The protective body position that passengers and crew take just before an expected impact or crash landing, to reduce injuries.
Where you use it
Shown on the safety card. Cabin crew shout commands such as 'Brace! Brace!' or 'Heads down, stay down'; the exact words depend on the airline. Crew members have their own brace position on their jump seats.
Examples
The safety card shows the brace position for passengers with and without a seat in front of them.
When the captain called 'Brace, brace', the cabin crew shouted their commands and took up the brace position.
Common phrases
adopt the brace position · brace for impact · brace command · take up the brace position
A loss of cabin pressure at high altitude, which can be slow or very fast. Without extra oxygen, people soon lose the ability to think clearly.
Where you use it
Pilots put on their masks and make an emergency descent to a safe altitude, usually around 10,000 feet. Crews talk about rapid, explosive and slow decompression. Signs include a loud noise, mist in the cabin and the masks dropping.
Examples
After the decompression, the crew made an emergency descent to 10,000 feet.
A slow decompression can be hard to notice, which is why the cabin altitude warning matters so much.
An inflatable slide fitted to an aircraft door that lets people slide quickly to the ground in an evacuation. It inflates automatically when an armed door is opened.
Where you use it
Doors are armed before departure and disarmed on arrival, so the slide does not deploy by accident. Some slides can also be used as rafts on water (slide rafts). Crew say 'the slide deployed' or 'the slide failed to inflate'.
Examples
A door was opened in armed mode on stand, and the evacuation slide inflated.
In training we jumped onto the evacuation slide from the door of a cabin mock-up.
Common phrases
slide deployment · arm the slide · slide raft · inflated evacuation slide
A portable container of a substance such as halon or water that the crew use to put out small fires on board.
Where you use it
Cabin crew check the fire extinguishers before every flight. Engines, the APU and the cargo holds have fixed extinguishing systems that pilots discharge from the cockpit. Crews train for cabin fires and lithium battery fires.
Examples
A passenger's power bank caught fire, and the crew used a fire extinguisher before cooling it with water.
Check that the needle on the fire extinguisher gauge is in the green.
Common phrases
halon fire extinguisher · water fire extinguisher · use a fire extinguisher · fire extinguisher check
A sudden, serious health problem on board, such as a heart problem, breathing difficulty or loss of consciousness, that needs urgent care.
Where you use it
Cabin crew give first aid, ask 'Is there a doctor on board?' and use the medical kit and the defibrillator (AED). The captain may get advice from a ground medical service and may decide to divert. On the radio it may be reported with a pan-pan call.
Examples
We have a medical emergency in row 23; is there a doctor on board?
Because of a medical emergency, we are diverting to the nearest suitable airport.
Common phrases
in-flight medical emergency · deal with a medical emergency · medical kit · ground medical support
A sudden loss of lift that happens when the wing meets the air at too steep an angle, so the airflow can no longer follow its upper surface.
Where you use it
Pilots train to recognise and recover from a stall. Warnings include a stick shaker and an aural 'Stall, stall'. Common phrases: stall warning, stall speed, approach to stall, stall recovery. Also a verb: 'the aircraft stalled'.
Examples
The stall warning sounded when the speed dropped during the steep turn.
In the simulator we practised stall recovery at high altitude.
Usage note
An aerodynamic stall has nothing to do with the engine stopping; the engines can run normally while the wing is stalled. A car engine that 'stalls' is a different meaning.
The pilot in command of a flight, who has final responsibility for the aircraft, its crew and its passengers. Captains usually sit in the left seat.
Where you use it
Used as a rank and as a form of address: 'Captain Demir'. In announcements: 'This is your captain speaking.' Official documents also use 'pilot in command' (PIC) or 'commander'. Captains typically wear four stripes.
Examples
The captain decided to wait for the storm to pass before starting the engines.
Please inform the captain that all passengers are on board.
Common phrases
pilot in command · captain's decision · inform the captain · training captain · upgrade to captain
The second pilot in an airline crew, who shares the flying and the duties with the captain and usually sits in the right seat.
Where you use it
Shortened to FO or F/O. First officers fly many sectors themselves; the cockpit roles are 'pilot flying' and 'pilot monitoring', not boss and assistant. First officers usually wear three stripes.
Examples
The first officer is flying this sector, and I will handle the radio.
She joined the airline as a first officer and became a captain six years later.
Usage note
'Co-pilot' is understood everywhere, but airlines and official reports normally use 'first officer'.
Common phrases
senior first officer · first officer training · the first officer is flying · right-hand seat
A written list of items that pilots or other crew check in a fixed order, so that nothing important is forgotten in each phase of flight.
Where you use it
Pilots 'call for' and 'run' checklists: before start, before takeoff, approach, after landing. Often one pilot reads each item (challenge) and the other answers (response). Each list ends with 'checklist complete'. Abnormal procedures are in the QRH.
Examples
Before takeoff checklist, please.
A call from the cabin interrupted us, so we started the checklist again from the top.
Common phrases
run the checklist · before takeoff checklist · checklist complete · read the checklist · emergency checklist
A short meeting or explanation before a task, in which the crew shares information about the flight, the route, the weather, roles and possible risks.
Where you use it
There is a pre-flight crew briefing, departure and approach briefings in the cockpit, and a cabin crew briefing led by the purser. Phrases: 'brief the approach', 'give a briefing'. The review after the task is a debriefing.
Examples
In the briefing, the captain told us to expect turbulence over the Alps.
Let's do the approach briefing before we start the descent.
Common phrases
pre-flight briefing · approach briefing · crew briefing · give a briefing · debriefing
The official details of a planned flight sent to air traffic services before departure: route, levels, speed, aircraft type, fuel endurance and alternate airports.
Where you use it
Dispatchers or pilots 'file' a flight plan, which can later be delayed, changed or cancelled. Airlines also give the crew an operational flight plan (OFP) with detailed fuel and time calculations.
Examples
Our flight plan shows a cruising level of 360, but ATC offered us 340.
Dispatch filed a new flight plan with a longer route to avoid the storm.
Common phrases
file a flight plan · operational flight plan · flight plan route · amend the flight plan
Estimated time of arrival: the time at which an aircraft is expected to arrive at its destination or at a point on its route.
Where you use it
Said as letters: E-T-A. Captains give it in announcements, and dispatch and ground staff plan around it. Related: ETD (estimated time of departure) and ATA (actual time of arrival). Operations usually use UTC.
Examples
Our ETA in Izmir is 14:25 local time.
Ops, Fastair 345, our new ETA is 1810 UTC because of the holding.
Common phrases
revised ETA · give an ETA · ETA at destination · ETA and ETD
An official notice for pilots and flight planners about temporary changes or hazards, such as a closed runway, a broken navigation aid or restricted airspace.
Where you use it
Said as one word: NO-tam. Pilots and dispatchers read the NOTAMs for the departure, route, destination and alternates before every flight. The name originally stood for 'Notice to Airmen'.
Examples
According to the NOTAM, runway 18 is closed for maintenance until Friday.
The briefing package had forty pages of NOTAMs, and only a few were relevant to us.
Usage note
Some authorities have changed the long form, but in daily work everyone simply says NOTAM.
Common phrases
read the NOTAMs · NOTAM briefing · issue a NOTAM · check the NOTAMs
Crew resource management: training and practices that help crews communicate, share tasks, make decisions together and catch each other's mistakes.
Where you use it
Said as letters. It developed from the late 1970s onwards, after accidents in which crew communication had failed. Pilots and cabin crew take recurrent CRM training and talk about good or poor CRM, speaking up and situational awareness.
Examples
Good CRM means the first officer feels free to question the captain's decision.
Our annual CRM training brought cabin crew and pilots together in one classroom.
Common phrases
CRM training · good CRM · poor CRM · joint CRM · CRM skills
Ten questions from this glossary. Pick the right meaning for each term and see your score.
How to learn aviation vocabulary
Start with the phonetic alphabet and the ICAO way of saying numbers. You will use them in almost every radio call, briefing and phone call with operations.
Learn standard phrases exactly as they are written. On the radio, words like affirm, say again and wilco are fixed, so do not swap them for everyday synonyms.
Read real texts from the field: METAR and TAF reports, NOTAMs, safety cards, checklists and published accident investigation reports. They show how the terms work in context.
Learn words in pairs and sequences: climb and descent, headwind and tailwind, taxi, line up and takeoff. The phases of a flight give you a natural order to remember them.
Say the words aloud. Several terms have pronunciation traps, such as the silent b in climb, the silent k in knot and the ending of fuselage.
Frequently asked questions
What is ICAO English Level 4?
It is the minimum English level ICAO requires for pilots and air traffic controllers who use English on international flights, and it is called 'Operational'. Candidates are assessed in six areas: pronunciation, structure, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and interactions. Level 4 is normally re-tested every three years and Level 5 every six years, while Level 6 (Expert) usually does not expire.
Why do pilots say 'niner' and 'tree' instead of 'nine' and 'three'?
ICAO gives numbers a fixed pronunciation so that they are understood on a noisy radio and by speakers of many languages: 'tree' for 3, 'fower' for 4, 'fife' for 5 and 'niner' for 9. Digits are usually read one by one, so heading 270 becomes 'two seven zero' and flight level 350 becomes 'three five zero'.
What is the difference between standard phraseology and plain English?
Standard phraseology is the fixed set of words and sentence patterns used for routine radio calls, such as clearances and readbacks. Plain English is ordinary language used when no standard phrase fits, for example during a medical emergency or an unusual technical problem. Professionals need both, and ICAO proficiency tests focus on plain English.
Do cabin crew need aviation English too?
Yes, although they use a different part of it. Cabin crew rarely talk to air traffic control, but they work with safety procedures, door and evacuation commands, announcements and galley vocabulary in English, and they communicate with international colleagues and passengers every day.
Why are speed and altitude given in knots and feet?
Knots and nautical miles come from sea navigation: a nautical mile is based on one minute of latitude, which makes distances easy to measure on charts. Feet became the standard unit for altitude in most of the world, although a few countries use metres in parts of their airspace. Runway lengths and visibility are usually given in metres outside the United States.
