Contents

Unit 1 The Language Factor 1

Unit 2 Missed Communications 10

Unit 3 Cooperative Communication 17

Unit 4 Did You Say What I Heard? 26

Unit 5 Non-Standard Communication 34

Unit 6 In Case of Emergency 40

Unit 7 Asking for Help 45

Unit 8 The Magic Words 54

Unit 9 Intersection Interactions 60

Unit 10 The Hurry-up Syndrome 66

Unit 11 Situational Awareness 74

Unit 12 Margins of Safety 80

 Unit 1

The Language Factor

1-1 Introduction

While a broad range of communication issues are commonly cited in

incidents reported to ASRS, the following reports focus on a single issue –

the effect of non-standard situations on personnel whose English may be

limited to ―standard‖ aviation terminology.

People with a limited command of English often rely upon the context of the

situation to aid their understanding and to prompt their use of certain

phraseology. As noted in the following reports, a change in the normal

sequence of events can result in a potentially dangerous miscommunication.

Aviation English 1
Questions

1. What can miscommunication result form?

2. What do people with a limited command of English often rely upon?

3. What major problem arises when people have a limited command of

English?

Vocabulary

cite to mention something as an example, especially one that supports, proves, or

explains an idea or situation
It is important to cite examples to support your argument.

command knowledge of something, especially a language, or ability to use

something
He's studied in the US and has a good command of English.

context the situation, events, or information that are related to something and that
help you to understand it
You should be able to guess the meaning of the word from the context.

issue (n) an important topic that people are discussing or arguing about
You can look at the issue from different angles.
We'll be looking at a broad range of important issues in this chapter.

miscommunication lack of communication

Miscommunication can sometimes cause serious problems.

potentially something that is potentially dangerous, useful etc is not dangerous etc
now, but may become so in the future
That was a potentially dangerous situation, but fortunately no one was hurt.

prompt to make people say or do something as a reaction

What prompted that remark?

Aviation English 2
1-2 On a Roll

When language factors detract from precise communications, it is vital to

clear up any ambiguity before acting. This B757 crew’s experience at a

foreign airport was a case in point that led to some ―sound‖ advice.

► Engine start was uneventful until the after start flows were accomplished.

At that point, we experienced a problem with the left bleed air valve…. The

MEL (Minimum Equipment List) showed this as a “return to gate” item. At

this point, I told the mechanic we needed to be towed back in. His response

sounded like he was asking us to release the parking brake; however,

neither of us quite understood what he had said about the brakes. I asked

him if he was asking us to release the parking brake, to which he responded,

“Release parking brake.” I released the parking brake and the tug operation

commenced.

With the tug operation underway, I turned my attention towards the logbook,

thinking about how I was going to write up this problem. The First Officer…

was looking over the MEL…. What seemed like a few seconds after we

began to be tugged, the First Officer asked, “Where is this guy taking us?” I

looked up I saw the end of the paved ramp approaching rapidly and heard

the First Officer say something about stopping the aircraft. At that point we

were both simultaneously on the brakes…. After leaving about 20 feet of

Aviation English 3
skid marks on the ramp, the aircraft came to a stop with the nose wheel

approximately eight feet from the end of the paved surface... without the tug

connected!

When the aircraft was stopped and the engines shut down, my next concern

was the location of the mechanic and whether he was okay. He was.

Although this mechanic speaks fairly good English, I was truly surprised at

the level of communication breakdown that had just occurred…. The

mechanic told me he thought I was telling him that I was releasing the

parking brake. Once we started rolling, he did not tell us to stop, but instead

simply unplugged his headset and got out of the way.

What lessons can be learned or relearned from all of this? First of all, this is

a reminder of something we all know: that being towed is an operation which

requires someone to be monitoring the aircraft. Secondly, never assume

anything. Since we never saw the tug pull away (it pulled away while we

were in the books) and we were told to release the parking brake, we

thought we were under tow….

Aviation English 4
During approach briefings, simulator training, and line non-normal operations

flight, someone is always assigned the task of monitoring the aircraft. Let

this serve as a reminder to do the same during tow operations.

Thank goodness no one was hurt, no metal was bent, and no careers were

put in jeopardy, but we sure came darn close.

Questions

1. Did everything go well during start up?

2. Why did the First Officer ask, ―Where is this guy taking us?‖

3. Who did he mean by ―this guy‖?

4. Why was the First Officer surprised?

5. What was the misunderstanding?

6. What was the cause of the misunderstanding?

Vocabulary

accomplish to succeed in doing something, especially after trying very hard

[= achieve]
We have accomplished all we set out to do.

ambiguity the state of being unclear, confusing, or not certain, or things that
produce this effect
Write clear definitions in order to avoid ambiguity.

assume to think that something is true, although you do not have definite proof
You shouldn't just assume things without getting all the facts.

Aviation English 5
approximately used to show that something is almost, but not completely,
accurate or correct [= roughly; ≠ exactly]
The plane will be landing in approximately 20 minutes.

assigned to give someone a particular job or make them responsible for a

particular person or thing
You have been assigned the task of keeping the records up to date.

come close to almost do something

I tell you, I was so mad I came close to hitting her.

commence to begin or to start something

The meeting is scheduled to commence at noon.

communication breakdown the failure of communication

There has been a breakdown in communication (= failure).

darn used as a mild swear word, to emphasize something

Why don‟t you switch the darn thing off and listen to me!

detract to make something seem less good

One mistake is not going to detract from your achievement.

fairly more than a little, but much less than very

She speaks English fairly well.

jeopardy in danger of being lost or harmed

Thousands of jobs are in jeopardy.

precise information, details etc that are exact, clear, and correct [= exact]
Each plane has to follow a precise route.

pave to cover a path, road, area etc with a hard level surface such as blocks of
stone or concrete
The road through the valley was only paved last year.

simultaneously happening or done at the same time as something else

The game will be broadcast simultaneously on TV and radio.

skid if a vehicle or a wheel on a vehicle skids, it suddenly slides sideways and you
cannot control it
The car skidded on the ice and went straight into the wall.

sound (v) if something or someone sounds good, bad, strange etc, that is how
they seem to you when you hear about them or read about them
It sounds like you had a good time on your trip.

Aviation English 6
sound (adj) sensible and likely to give good results
He gave me some very sound advice.

underway happening now

Plans are underway to build a new stadium in the city.

uneventful with nothing exciting or unusual happening

She led a quiet uneventful life.

unplug to disconnect a piece of electrical equipment by pulling its plug out of a

socket
Did you remember to unplug the kettle?

vital extremely important and necessary for something to succeed or exist

[= crucial]
Regular exercise is vital for your health.

1-3 It Can Happen to You

If flight crews involved in international operations heed the preceding advice,

similar incidents can be avoided. Unfortunately, the admonition didn’t get out

soon enough for this A330 crew. The similarity to the first report is startling

and serves to reinforce the caution that ―it can happen to you.‖

► A cargo door light annunciated during pushback and engine start. The

Captain instructed the ground crew to stay connected because they would

have to tow us back to the gate. The Captain stated to the ground crew

(through the interphone), “Confirm tow bar connected.” The ground

Aviation English 7
coordinator stated, “OK.” The Captain then stated that he was releasing the

brakes and did so. We started to move.

When I looked up, we were passing our gate and increasing speed. We then

noticed the wing walker giving us the stop signal. I said, “I don‟t think we‟re

connected.” The Captain and I were reluctant to apply the brakes for fear of

snapping and damaging the nose gear. Soon, the Captain decided that we

had traveled far enough and applied the brakes. We then returned to the

gate under our own power, having realized that the tow bar had been

disconnected.

I believe the incident was primarily caused by the inability of the ground crew

to understand English. We were also busy dealing with checklists and

abnormal procedures. There were no injuries or damage.

Questions

1. Who is the speaker?

2. Why did the Captain decide to return to the gate?

3. What did the Captain say to the ground crew?

4. Do you think the coordinator understood the Captain? Why?

5. Why were the Captain and the First Officer reluctant to apply the brakes?

6. What does the speaker think was the main cause of the incident?

Aviation English 8
Vocabulary

abnormal very different from usual in a way that seems strange, worrying, wrong,
or dangerous [≠ normal]
My parents thought it was abnormal for a boy to be interested in ballet.

admonition warning; advice for or against doing something

annunciate to announce something

heed to pay attention to someone's advice or warning

If she had only heeded my warnings, none of this would have happened.

preceding happening or coming before the time, place, or part mentioned

[= previous; ≠ following]
See the diagram in the preceding chapter.

primarily mainly
Language is primarily a system of signs.

reinforce to give support to an opinion, idea, or feeling, and make it stronger

Success in the talks will reinforce his reputation as an international statesman.

reluctant slow and unwilling

Some of the older staff were reluctant to use the new equipment.

snap to break with a sudden sharp noise, or to make something break with a
sudden sharp noise
A twig snapped under my feet.

startling very unusual or surprising

There has been a startling increase in the numbers of homeless people.

state (v) to formally say or write a piece of information or your opinion

The facts are clearly stated in the report.

Aviation English 9
 Unit 2

Missed Communications

2-1 Introduction

Communication problems are mentioned in a high percentage of incidents

reported to ASRS. Misunderstandings account for the greatest number of

communication errors, but improper radio operation and equipment

malfunctions are also culprits.

2-2 A Private Conversation

A misplaced switch, apparently overlooked during the cockpit preflight,

resulted in this A300 Captain transmitting to a very limited audience.

► The First Officer handled the radios as we taxied. When we were cleared

for takeoff, I responded using my boom microphone and we commenced our

takeoff. Tower made no query as to whether we received the takeoff

clearance (presumably because they saw us on the roll). As we passed

Aviation English 10
through 2,000 feet, Tower called and instructed us to turn right to 050

degrees and contact Departure. I acknowledged…. Tower called again (with

a more urgent tone) with the same instructions, and asked if we had

received their instructions. I then switched to my hand microphone and

replied again. Tower repeated the last instruction in a more urgent tone and

also stated, “„Ident‟ if you can hear me or contact Departure.” I looked at the

Com #1 (Captain‟s) audio box and noticed that it was set to transmit on

Intercom not Com #1…

Questions

1. Who is the speaker?

2. What was the problem?

3. Whose fault was it?

4. Why did the Controller call with a more urgent tone each time?

5. When did the Captain find out what the problem was?

Vocabulary

acknowledge to admit or accept that something is true or that a situation exists

Please acknowledge receipt of this document by signing and returning the
enclosed form.

culprit the reason for a particular problem or difficulty

Plaque is the culprit that causes tooth decay.

presumably used to say that you think something is probably true

I couldn‟t concentrate, presumably because I was so tired.

Aviation English 11
query a question that you ask to get information, or to check that something is true
or correct
Our assistants will be happy to answer your queries.

tone the way your voice sounds, which shows how you are feeling or what you
mean
There was urgency in his tone.

urgent very important and needing to be dealt with immediately

I‟m afraid something urgent has come up.

2-3 Talk, Don’t Squawk

A corporate pilot reported on a number of difficulties encountered when

flying with a contract pilot. The problems started with this communications

error.

► …ZZZ Departure handed us off to Center, but the contract SIC (Second

In Command) had a problem changing the frequency on the Com 2 radio.

[He] put the frequency in the transponder and tried to speak, but he was

talking to Departure again….

Questions

1. What was the problem?

2. Whose fault was it?

Aviation English 12
2-4 Miscommunications

Blend distractions, assumptions, and misinterpretations. Add a little

pressure. Arrange on a long, flat surface. For ―well done‖ communications,

clarify all ingredients before lifting off. For ―half-baked‖ communications,

don’t let the situation get worse; ask for clarification.

► My aircraft departed ZZZ airport without being released…. The ultimate

reason was a miscommunication between the First Officer and myself…. I

work hard never to rush the First Officer beyond his or her ability, yet in

this case, I believe I did. Even if I said nothing verbally, I probably said it with

my actions because we were running late and I was moving quickly….

During taxi, while the First Officer got the clearance, I wanted to verify the

winds. This created a situation where I was listening to ATIS while the First

Officer was picking up the clearance…. We taxied to the hold short line just

north of another aircraft. The First Officer briefed the clearance…but never

indicated that we were being held for release and I never asked at that time.

We then proceeded to wait for the other aircraft to taxi out. Finally, we asked

them if they were going to go. They indicated that they were waiting on us. I

was surprised because I didn‟t know we had been cleared for departure or

released. As I entered the runway, something felt wrong to me, and because

I didn‟t hear the clearance, I asked if we were cleared and the First Officer

answered, “Yes” (it turned out that this was a reference to all the checklists

Aviation English 13
being cleared). With that confirmation I departed…. Departure let us know

that we had departed without being released.

Questions

1. What thing out of the ordinary happened?

2. Does the Captain normally rush his First Officer?

3. Did the Captain say anything that rushed the First Officer?

4. Why did something feel wrong to the Captain as they entered the

runway?

5. What does the Captain believe might have been the cause of this

incident?

Vocabulary

beyond outside the range or limits of something or someone

Such tasks are far beyond the scope of the average schoolkid.

blend to combine different things in a way that produces an effective or pleasant

result, or to become combined in this way
The story blends fact and legend.

distraction something that stops you paying attention to what you are doing
I study in the library as there are too many distractions at home.

half-baked a half-baked idea, suggestion, plan etc has not been properly planned
He's always coming out with these half-baked ideas which will never work.

ingredient one of the things or qualities that are necessary to make something
successful
He has all the ingredients of a great player.

Aviation English 14
pick up to notice something that you are looking for or something that is not very
obvious
I picked up the faint sound of a car in the distance.

run to happen at the time mentioned

Programs are running a few minutes behind schedule this evening.

turn out to happen in a particular way, or to have a particular result, especially one
that you did not expect
How did things turn out in the end?

ultimate the ultimate result of a long process is what happens at the end of it
The ultimate outcome of the experiment cannot be predicted.

verbally in spoken words and not in writing or actions

The company had received complaints both verbally and in writing.

verify to discover whether something is correct or true

Please verify that there is sufficient memory available before loading the program.

2-5 Runway Confusion

In the following incident, key information was left out of otherwise clear

communication. In this case, there were two different interpretations of the

same phrase.

► I was told, “Cleared to land Runway 24” while on final. As I came closer to

the airport the Tower said, “Can you make Runway 15L?” I said, “Yes, I

can.” (It was my understanding that I was to enter a base leg and land on

Runway 15L.) When I was [on] short final the Tower proceeded to confirm

that I could make Runway 15L. My understanding was that I should try to

Aviation English 15
land on Runway 15L because of other traffic. The Tower meant for me to

land on Runway 24 and make the first available left turn onto Runway 15L

due to traffic on final. The aircraft behind us did a go-around. This runway

incursion occurred because of a miscommunication. I will clarify a request

like that in the future. If both the Tower and I were clearer in what we said, I

believe something like this would never have happened.

Questions

1. Who could have been clearer to avoid the incident?

2. How could the incident have been avoided after the ambiguous remark?

3. What ambiguous remark was exchanged?

4. What two meanings did the remark have?

5. What was the intended meaning?

6. Why did the Captain land on the wrong runway?

Vocabulary

incursion the sudden appearance of something in a particular area of activity that

is either not expected or not wanted
The incursion of flies into the area could damage crops.

interpretation the particular way in which something is understood or explained

It's difficult to put an accurate interpretation on the survey results.

occur to happen
When exactly did the incident occur?

Aviation English 16
 Unit 3

Cooperative Communication

3-1 Introduction

Two-way communication is one of the most important aspects of air traffic

control. But, as the Controller who submitted this ASRS report found, a radio

is like the old two-man crosscut saw…you need somebody on each end.

► The Skylane was maneuvering in the Class C outer area, receiving traffic

advisories on my frequency. He had been at 5000 feet west of the arrival

corridor where the jet arrivals transition at 5000 feet. [Then] I noticed that the

Skylane had turned eastbound, putting him on a converging course with a

B737. I asked the Skylane if he was continuing in that direction. He replied

that he was. I instructed the pilot to either reverse course, or climb to 5,500

feet for traffic. There was no response. I issued the traffic to the B737

(approximately four miles away). The [B737] pilot replied that he was

looking. I called traffic to the Skylane and instructed the pilot to climb. There

Aviation English 17
was no response. I issued traffic to the B737 again, and advised him that the

other aircraft was not listening. The pilot of the B737 did not see the aircraft.

As my airspace lower limit is 5000 feet, I quickly coordinated with the

adjacent sector, issued the B737 a traffic alert, and descended him to 4000

feet. The aircraft passed within 1/2 mile laterally and approximately 300 feet

vertically. When I finally regained radio communication with the Skylane, he

apologized for not hearing my calls.

A controller‟s only tool is a frequency. If [pilots] are not listening to their

radios, it is impossible for us to do our jobs.

Questions

1. Why is two-way communication compared to a crosscut saw?

2. Who is the speaker?

3. What did he suddenly notice?

4. Which pilot did not respond to the Controller? Why?

5. Why did the Controller issue the B737 a traffic alert?

6. How close did the two aircraft pass each other?

7. Why did the Skylane apologize to the Controller?

Aviation English 18
Vocabulary

adjacent (of an area, a building, a room, etc.) next to or near something

The planes landed on adjacent runways.

advisory an official warning or notice that gives information about a dangerous

situation
a tornado advisory

apologize to tell someone that you are sorry that you have done something wrong
We apologize for the late departure of this flight.

communication the process by which people exchange information or express

their thoughts and feelings
Good communication is vital in a large organization.
Radio was the pilot's only means of communication.

converge to come from different directions and meet at the same point to become
one thing [≠ diverge]
Traffic is heavy where the two roads converge.
descend to move or to tell someone to move from a higher level to a lower one
[≠ ascend]
Our plane started to descend.

issue (v) to officially make a statement, give an order, warning etc.

Visitors are issued with identity cards to wear inside the factory.

lateral relating to the sides of something, or movement to the side

lateral eye movements

regain to get something back, especially an ability or quality, that you have lost
[= recover]
He spent two weeks in the hospital regaining his strength after the operation.

reverse opposite to what is usual or to what has just been stated

They traveled in the reverse direction.

saw a tool that you use for cutting wood

Aviation English 19
3-2 Wrong Number

Even if everyone on the radio frequency is listening, they may not be hearing

the same things. Similar call signs can add another dimension to the

problem. The conversation in this ASRS report approaches the comic

confusion of the ―Who’s on First‖ routine, but the consequences could have

been serious.

► Taxiing to runway 7L, prior to the hold short line, Tower cleared our flight

for takeoff. The First Officer responded that we needed two minutes... Tower

then told us to hold short. We read back the clearance and held short of the

runway. When we told Tower that we were ready for takeoff, we heard

Tower say, “Aircraft X23 cleared for takeoff.” The First Officer responded,

“Roger, Aircraft X23 cleared for takeoff.” Tower then said, “Aircraft Y23,

cancel takeoff clearance.” Aircraft Y23 said, “The other aircraft thinks he has

takeoff clearance.” Tower then said, “Aircraft X23, you are cleared for

takeoff.” Aircraft Y23 said, “Who‟s cleared for takeoff?” Tower had

apparently cleared Aircraft Y23 for takeoff previously. I had heard, “Aircraft

X23 cleared for takeoff.” The First Officer read the clearance back… The

problem of similar call signs remains a constant source of confusion.

Aviation English 20
Questions

1. It is said that everyone on the radio frequency could be ―listening,‖ but

they may not be ―hearing‖ the same things. What is meant by this?

2. Who is the speaker, aircraft X23 or Y23?

3. Which aircraft seems to have been cleared for take off first?

4. Why did aircraft Y23 ask ―Who’s cleared for takeoff?‖

5. What caused the confusion?

6. Could the confusion have led to a disaster? Why?

Vocabulary

apparently used to say that you have heard that something is true, although you
are not completely sure about it
It's going to be hot this weekend, apparently.

consequences something that happens as a result of a particular action or set of

conditions
This decision could have serious consequences for the industry.

constant happening regularly or all the time

A newborn baby needs constant care and attention.

dimension a part of a situation or a quality involved in it [= aspect]

Her job added a new dimension to her life.

prior existing or arranged before something else or before the present situation
The airline says that some flights may be cancelled without prior warning.

Aviation English 21
3-3 Listening versus Hearing –

It’s a Matter of Degree

The Cessna 172 pilot who submitted this report was departing from an

airport where terrain clearance was a consideration. With less visibility and a

slower reaction to the heading/intercept disparity, this pilot might have heard

a more angelic ―harping‖ than the Controller’s down-to-earth admonition.

► My takeoff instructions from Tower were, “Fly runway heading.” Tower

handed me off to Departure. On calling Departure, I was given a heading

and told to intercept [the airway]. I wrote down a heading and confirmed it on

the radio. I was not corrected. The heading I thought I heard was 260

degrees. Apparently ATC said 360 degrees. As I turned towards 260

degrees (from an initial heading of +/- 50 degrees), I realized I wouldn‟t be

able to intercept [the airway], so I called ATC and asked him to repeat the

heading. He said, “360,” which I repeated, and began my turn back toward

360 degrees. ATC said, “Say your heading,” and I gave my current heading.

Then ATC said, “Say your heading before you asked me to repeat.” I said,

“I‟m not sure. It was in the 200‟s.” He said, “In the 200‟s could be very

dangerous one mile from the airport.” I said, “Roger.” In the future I will listen

closer and ask quicker.

Aviation English 22
Questions

1. What is the difference between ―listening‖ and ―hearing‖?

2. Why is this case a good example to clarify the difference?

3. What did ATC say the heading was?

4. What did the pilot hear?

5. Why was it too late for the pilot to correct the heading?

Vocabulary

angelic connected with angels

consideration careful thought and attention, especially before making an official or

important decision
Careful consideration should be given to issues of health and safety.

current happening or existing now

Who is the current holder of the world record in the 100 meters?

disparity a difference between two or more things

It is not easy to explain the disparity that still exists between the salaries of men
and women.

down-to-earth sensible and practical, in a way that is helpful and friendly

listen to pay attention to what someone is saying or to a sound that you can hear
Do not confuse ―hear‖ with ―listen to,‖ which means ―hear and pay attention to‖
You should listen to my advice. (NOT You should hear my advice.)

visibility the distance it is possible to see, especially when this is affected by

weather conditions
Most modern planes can land in zero visibility.

Aviation English 23
3-4 A Busy Cockpit

In another incident, a busy air carrier crew conducting a missed approach

apparently failed to read back an ATC clearance correctly, and ATC didn’t

catch the readback error. From the First Officer’s report:

► On arrival a missed approach was required to resolve an abnormal

cockpit indication. While executing the missed approach, Tower instructed

us to climb to 3,000 feet MSL. Apparently they also instructed us to fly

runway heading. However, we flew the published missed approach

procedure which diverges from runway heading. Neither the Captain nor

I…recall hearing it [runway heading clearance]. What we believe happened

was that the runway heading clearance was issued and we acknowledged it.

However, in a very busy two-pilot cockpit while executing a missed approach

in IMC weather with wind shear advisories and...an abnormal cockpit

indication to deal with, we failed to actually “listen to” the whole clearance

(“fly runway heading, climb to 3,000 feet”). Tower later advised us over the

telephone that there had been a potential conflict with another aircraft.

Questions

1. Why was missed approach required?

2. What did the Controller tell the Captain to do?

Aviation English 24
3. Did the Captain follow the Controller’s instructions? What did he do?

4. Why did the Controller want the Captain to do as he said?

5. What communication problem was there between the Captain and the

Controller?

Vocabulary

execute to perform a skilful action or movement

The pilot executed a perfect landing.

diverge if two lines or paths diverge, they separate and go in different directions
[≠ converge]
We went through school and college together, but then our paths diverged.

potential that can develop into something or be developed in the future

First we need to identify actual and potential problems.

resolve to find a satisfactory way of dealing with a problem or difficulty

Both sides met in order to try to resolve their differences.

Aviation English 25
 Unit 4

Did You Say What I Heard?

4-1 Introduction

Mandatory readback of certain parts of clearances provides a mechanism to

reduce misunderstandings between ATC and flight crews. An ATC

supervisor reports on a readback error that slipped by both him and an ATC

trainee, with a potentially hazardous result.

► Aircraft A was given a descent from 8,000 feet to only 7,000 feet (6,000

feet would be the norm on this route). Pilot read back 6,000 feet, which was

not caught by either of us. We tried to get him back to 7,000 feet, but he

went to 6,500 before he climbed back. Aircraft B was one mile in trail at

6,000 feet, same speed. A contributing factor was my over-reliance on the

trainee, who was fairly well along in training. I was assuming he would catch

the problem, so I was not listening as intently. Also, the [typical] descent

Aviation English 26
from 8,000 to 6,000 feet probably had the pilot expecting to hear 6,000. Only

goes to prove the importance of readbacks being heard and understood.

Questions

1. What kind of error occurred?

2. Who was responsible for the error: the Controller, the pilot, or both?

Explain.

3. Why didn’t the ATC supervisor catch the error in time?

Vocabulary

descent the process of going down [≠ ascent]

Passengers must fasten their seat belts prior to descent.

hazardous dangerous, especially to people's health or safety

The chemicals in paint can be hazardous to health.

intently showing strong interest and attention

She looked at him intently.

over-reliance depending too much on someone or something else

My over-reliance on the new pilot was the cause of the incident.

prove to show that something is true by providing facts, information etc.

Tests have proved that the system works.

slip to slide out of position or out of your hand

She was careful not to let her control slip.

trail a route that is followed for a particular purpose

This trail leads to the lake.

Aviation English 27
4-2 Not So Easy as ABC

Another controller reports that even when the readback of the clearance is

correct, sometimes it’s the wrong aircraft doing the reading back.

► ATC was holding about five aircraft. All were within five minutes of EFC

(Expect Further Clearance) times. Air carrier flight ABC checked in on the

frequency approaching the holding fix. ATC cleared [same company] flight

BCD via the STAR. The readback sounded correct. Flight BCD then asked if

that clearance was for him. ATC stated affirmative. Flight ABC was

approaching EFC time, and mistakenly took BCD‟s clearance. Flight ABC

was given a safe altitude to maintain and reissued holding instructions. Flight

BCD did the “heads up,” requested clarification, and kept ATC from having a

very serious situation develop very quickly. We all get hurried on occasion.

Kudos to the pilots out there for whom safety, not time, is the number one

priority.

Careful readbacks—and additional clarification, if necessary—are especially

important for both pilots and controllers when aircraft with similar-sounding

call signs are on the frequency.

Aviation English 28
Questions

1. What was the cause of this incident?

2. How could it have been prevented in the first place?

3. Which flight was the clearance given to initially?

4. Which flight clarified the situation in time? How?

5. According to the text, which is more important, safety or time?

Vocabulary

kudos the state of being admired and respected for being important or for doing
something important
Kudos to you for your hard work on the project.

on occasion sometimes but not often

He has been known on occasion to lose his temper.

similar-sounding sounding similar to one another

I always confuse the two name; they sound very similar.

4-3 Clearly Not Cleared

In this Air Traffic Controller’s report, a foreign pilot misinterpreted what

appeared to be a clearly stated question. It just happened to come when the

pilot was expecting to hear something else.

Aviation English 29
► Aircraft #2 was cleared to land on Runway 18R. Aircraft #1 (a foreign

carrier) was told to, “Taxi into position on Runway 27 and hold. Traffic

landing Runway 18R.” Upon issuing a wind check, I realized that aircraft #1

had a seven knot tailwind. I asked if the wind was going to be a problem. He

acknowledged with his call sign for what I thought was receipt of my

transmission, but then he throttled up and started the departure roll. Aircraft

#2 was over the numbers on flare. I attempted to cancel the takeoff roll and

then proceeded to send aircraft #2 around. By the time aircraft #2 reached

the crossing intersection, he was approximately 400 feet AGL and aircraft #1

was approximately 200 feet off his right, approaching rotation speed.

I believe that language was the problem. After reviewing the tapes, I do not

see how my question of the tailwind component was misunderstood as,

“Cleared for takeoff”…. I guess the pilot figured that since he was in position

and hold on the runway that my next transmission to him would be a takeoff

clearance.

Questions

1. Who is the speaker?

2. Which aircraft misunderstood the Controller?

3. What was the misunderstanding?

4. What does the speaker believe was the cause of the misunderstanding?

Aviation English 30
5. Why does the speaker think the pilot was expecting to hear something

else?

Vocabulary

appear used to say how something seems, especially from what you know about it
or from what you can see
There appears to have been a mistake.

attempt to try to do something, especially something difficult

A rescue was attempted by Coast Guards, but it was not successful.

component one of several parts that together make up a whole machine, system
etc.
The factory makes aircraft engine components.

figure (v) to form a particular opinion after thinking about a situation

I'm telling you because I figure you're the only one who can keep a secret.

misinterpret to not understand the correct meaning of something that someone

says or does, or of facts that you are considering
Some parts of the report could be misinterpreted.

receipt the act of receiving something

They acknowledged receipt of the letter.

transmission the process of sending out electronic signals, messages etc, using
radio, television, or other similar equipment
the transmission of computer data along telephone lines

4-4 The Pause That Confuses

A popular punctuation joke presents a ―Dear John‖ letter in two versions,

each version consisting of the same words, but quite different meanings:

Aviation English 31
Version 1

“...I have no feelings whatsoever when we‟re apart. I can be forever happy –

will you let me be yours?”

Version 2

“...I have no feelings whatsoever. When we‟re apart, I can be forever happy.

Will you let me be?”

The analogy in pilot-controller verbal communications is the pause – where it

falls in the transmission, and how long it lasts. A recent Captain’s report to

ASRS illustrates the confusion that can result when the timing of the pause

is off.

► Upon receiving takeoff clearance, Tower modified the SID to fly runway

heading (010º). Upon climbing through 1,000 feet MSL, Tower instructed us

to do the following:

“[Aircraft call sign] Start your turn to heading 030º (same as SID) –

pause/breath – at 4,000 feet contact [Departure] on 120.9.”

What the Tower meant to say was: “Start your turn to heading 030º at 4,000

feet. Contact [Departure] on 120.9.”

Aviation English 32
Depending on where the pause/breath was taken, the instructions from

Tower have different implications. After contacting [Departure], they asked

our heading and advised us of traffic...ahead. We acknowledged the traffic in

sight and asked if they wanted us back on a 010º heading. Several seconds

went by. Then [Departure] assigned us a heading of 350º, direct [fix] when

able.

Questions

1. How important are pauses? How can pauses be confusing?

2. What different meanings do you get from the two versions of the letter?

3. Who had a wrong pause in this case?

4. What did he say and what did he mean to say?

5. What caused this confusion? Try to say it with the correct pause.

6. Why is the proper use of pauses important for pilots and controllers?

Vocabulary

analogy something that seems similar between two situations, processes etc
The teacher drew an analogy between the human heart and a pump.

apart if things are apart, they are not close to each other or touching each other
The two towns are twenty kilometers apart.

excerpt a short piece taken from a book, poem, piece of music etc
I‟d like to read out a short excerpt from the poem.

implication a possible future effect or result of an action, event, decision etc

His talk will examine the wider implications of the Internet revolution.

Aviation English 33
 Unit 5

Non-Standard Communication

5-1 Introduction

ASRS recently received a report from a concerned air traffic controller who

describes a non-standard communication practice by pilots and controllers –

the use of microphone clicks as a response to clearances (by pilots), or to

readbacks (by controllers).

► It is very common for pilots to respond to clearances with just their call

sign or a double-click of the mike. Neither of these are good responses…

Controllers are also at fault for using the double-click to respond to pilots. I

have tried to get controllers to change [this practice] in my facility, but old,

bad habits are very hard to break. I have been told that the double-click has

been around forever and to stop being a baby about it!

Aviation English 34
Since all an accident team has to go on is the tapes of the incident, I believe

that double-clicks and pilots replying with only their call sign are accidents

waiting to happen. As the skies get busier, it is only a matter of time before

one of these [practices] leads to, or is particularly to blame, for an incident or

accident.

I suggest a reminder that the only proper way for a pilot to respond to any

ATC clearance is by using their call sign and at least a “Roger,” if not a

complete readback of the clearance. Double-clicks by a pilot or controller

have no place in aviation.

A substantial number of ASRS communications-related reports involve

readback/hearback problems. Many of these incidents could be prevented if

reporters followed prescribed radio contact techniques. Section 4-2-3 of the

Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), and section 2-4-3 of the Controllers

Handbook (FAA Order 7110.65) cover correct radio communications

phraseology and techniques for pilots and controllers, respectively. Neither

reference endorses microphone clicks as an appropriate response

technique.

Aviation English 35
Questions

1. What are common non-standard ways to respond to clearances?

2. What is the danger of using non-standard responses?

3. According to the speaker, why is the occurrence of some accidents ―only

a matter of time‖?

4. What is the proper way to respond to ATC clearance?

Vocabulary

at fault if someone is at fault, they are responsible for something bad that has
happened
The police said that the other driver was at fault.

appropriate correct or suitable for a particular time, situation, or purpose

[≠ inappropriate]
Jeans are not appropriate for a formal party.

endorse to express formal support or approval for someone or something

I fully endorse the measures taken to improve safety standards.

blame used to say that someone or something is responsible for something bad
The report discloses that human error was to blame for the accident.

concerned worried and feeling concern about something

The President is deeply concerned about this issue.

facility a place or building used for a particular activity or industry, or for providing
a particular type of service
Money is being raised to build a new sports facility.

hard to break hard to change

It is said that old habits are hard to break.

have no place to be completely unacceptable

Jokes have no place in an academic essay.

Aviation English 36
matter of time used to say that something will definitely happen in the future,
although you are not sure when
The old man is dying and there's nothing we can do. I'm afraid it's only a matter of
time.

proper right, suitable, or correct

I can't make the repairs without the proper tools.

reminder something that makes you notice, remember, or think about something
The dentist's office sent you a reminder about your appointment next week.

respectively in the same order as the things you have just mentioned

substantial large in amount or number [= considerable]

A substantial number of houses were damaged by the earthquake.

5-2 “Red Flags”

In the following incident, an air carrier crew fell victim to a clearance

misunderstanding, but realized after the event that they had missed

several ―red flags‖ that might have led them to question the clearance:

► While taxiing for takeoff, XYZ Radio gave us a clearance as follows:

“Cleared via the radials of [jet route], climb and maintain 3-3 thousand,

expect FL350 5 minutes after departure.” I read back, “…cleared via the

radials of [jet route], climb and maintain FL330, expect FL350 5 minutes

after departure.” Radio came back and said, “Correct, except expect FL350

3 minutes after departure.”

Aviation English 37
After departure Center gave us a heading of 165º. Through about 10,000

feet, they asked us what altitude we were given. We responded FL330. They

said no, it was to climb to 3,000 feet. They said no problem, continue climb

to FL 350.

Both Radio and Center missed our readbacks of FL330. Because we were in

a rush, we missed the “red flags” of the clearance – “cleared via the radials”

and “3-3 thousand.” Cleared via the radials would indicate it was an altitude

lower than 18,000 feet, and 3-3 thousand is non-standard terminology [for

3,000 feet].

I think the lesson is to pay closer attention to the clearance. Question

anything that is not clear, and don‟t rely on the readback to catch any errors.

Questions

1. What is the first mistake which leads to further readback/hearback

errors?

2. What should the Controller have said instead?

3. How could the pilot have noticed the ambiguity?

4. What should the pilot have done to clarify the ambiguity?

Aviation English 38
Vocabulary

close (adj) looking at, thinking about, or watching something very carefully
Pay close attention to what I am telling you.

except used before you mention the only thing or person about which a statement
is not true
The office is open every day except Fridays.

expect to think that something will happen because it seems likely or has been
planned
Forecasters expect snow in the mountains.

fall victim to be badly affected or destroyed by a situation

Many small businesses have fallen victim to the recession.

rush (n) a situation in which you are in a hurry and need to do things quickly
I'm sorry, I can't talk now - I'm in a rush.

Aviation English 39
 Unit 6

In Case of Emergency

6-1 Introduction

According to the FAA’s Pilot/Controller Glossary, an Emergency is ―a

distress or an urgency condition.‖ The Glossary defines distress as

―requiring immediate assistance.‖ Urgency is defined as ―a condition of being

threatened by serious and/or imminent danger and condition of being

concerned about safety and of requiring timely but not immediate

assistance; a potential distress condition.‖ Since most would agree on what

constitutes a distress condition (e.g. fire, mechanical failure, structural

damage), the challenge appears to be for pilots and controllers to recognize

when an ―urgent‖ condition justifies declaring an emergency.

The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) states: ―...Some are reluctant to

report an urgency condition when they encounter situations which may not

be immediately perilous, but are potentially catastrophic.‖

Aviation English 40
Questions

1. What is the definition of ―distress‖ according to the Glossary?

2. What is the difference between ―urgency‖ and ―distress‖?

3. Give a few examples for a distress condition.

4. When are some pilots reluctant to report an urgency condition?

Vocabulary

catastrophic relating to a terrible event in which there is a lot of destruction,

suffering, or death [= disastrous]
The failure of the talks could have catastrophic consequences.

challenge a new or difficult task that tests someone’s ability and skill
I like the challenge of learning new things.

constitute to be considered to be something

The rise in crime constitutes a threat to society.

distress a situation in which a ship, plane, etc. is in danger or difficulty and needs
help
We picked up a distress signal 6 kilometers away.

encounter to experience something, especially problems

We encountered a number of difficulties in the first week.

imminent (especially of something unpleasant) likely to happen very soon

The child was in imminent danger of falling into the water.

justify to be a good and acceptable reason for something

Nothing justifies murdering another human being.

perilous very dangerous

a perilous journey across the mountains

timely done or happening at exactly the right time

A nasty incident was prevented by the timely arrival of the police.

Aviation English 41
threaten to seem likely to happen or cause something unpleasant
According to some scientists, global warming threatens the survival of the whole
human race.

urgency (n) a situation of great importance which needs to be dealt with

immediately
a matter of great urgency

6-2 Trust Me

The following ASRS reports show that air traffic controllers may have a

different viewpoint regarding the need to use the ―E‖ word. This B757 crew

learned that once an emergency has been declared, controllers can redirect

traffic and take the steps necessary to prevent a bad situation from getting

worse.

► ...[Destination] went below minimums. We decided to divert. While on

vectors to ZZZ1 Runway 31R, the weather went below minimums. We were

switched to Runway 4. On final to Runway 4, ZZZ1 was closed to all traffic.

ATC asked our intentions. We responded that we needed to divert to ZZZ2,

which was still open, and declared “minimum fuel” (we had 8,300 pounds).

Approach control gave us a vector for ZZZ2 and told us that they were

declaring us a “fuel emergency.” We responded that we were only stating,

“minimum fuel.” The Controller said, “Trust me. Looking at the traffic in your

Aviation English 42
area, you need to be an emergency.” I trust that the Controller was correct in

declaring the emergency. We could not see the traffic that we would have

been behind without the expedited handling.

Questions

1. Why did the pilot decide to divert?

2. What did the pilot state regarding the aircraft’s fuel?

3. What was the Controller’s response? Why?

4. The Controller told the pilot, ―Trust me.‖ What did he imply?

5. Why was the pilot convinced that the Controller was right?

Vocabulary

divert to change direction

Northbound traffic will have to be diverted onto minor roads.

expedite to make a process or action happen more quickly [= speed up]

We have developed rapid order processing to expedite deliveries to customers.

intention a plan or desire to do something

He has announced his intention to retire.

redirect to send something in a different direction

The flight was redirected to another airport.

viewpoint a particular way of thinking about a problem or subject [= point of view]

We need to seriously consider all the different viewpoints on the issue.

Aviation English 43
6-3 “MAYDAY”

The official ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) word used to

signify an aircraft in distress is, ―MAYDAY.‖ A B757 crew found that the word

―Emergency‖ may not get the desired results outside of their airspace.

Additional information on Emergency terminology and procedures can be

found in FAR Section 91.3 and AIM Chapter 6.

► ...Diverted into ZZZ [South America] and declared an emergency, but the

non-English speaking controller didn‟t recognize what that meant. So, no

standard services such as priority handling, fire/rescue equipment, etc. were

provided.... The root cause of the problem was that the crew was trained to

use “Emergency” rather than “MAYDAY.”

Questions

1. What was the problem?

2. What was the cause of the problem?

Aviation English 44
 Unit 7

Asking for Help

7-1 Introduction

Help is another word that has difficulty getting past the lips of aviation

professionals. It is clear from the following ASRS reports that there are

times when a little assistance is appropriate. Getting professional help can

do wonders for lowering stress levels (to say nothing of the accident rate).

7-2 Don’t Brush It Off

The maintenance technician, pilots, and controller who submitted these

reports all had a brush with misfortune that could have lead to serious

consequences. The lesson common to each of their experiences is to ask for

help when it is needed. Don’t ―brush‖ it off. Never be too busy, reluctant,

unwilling, self-conscious, or hesitant to ask for help.

Aviation English 45
7-3 Busy

► An aircraft arrived with the #2 electrical hydraulic pump inoperative. We

replaced the pump and it tested OK. The head pressure had been bled off

and resulted in a “Reservoir Pressurization” light being on. As I was

correcting the paperwork, I had a technician from another airline, three of my

own maintenance crew, and the flight crew all providing me with information.

While this was going on, I entered the wrong information and code to clear

the hydraulic pump. I inadvertently re-deferred the pump and listed the

reservoir light as a continuing problem. In effect, I dispatched an illegal

aircraft.... I was too busy to do what I should have done; sought the help of a

senior mechanic to help with lead duties as I made the computer input.

Questions

1. Why can getting professional help be useful?

2. What does ―brush‖ stand for in this text?

3. Why was it necessary for the speaker to seek help?

Vocabulary

brush with sth a time when you only just avoid an unpleasant situation or
argument
A brush with death can make you appreciate life more.

brush sth off to ignore something

Aviation English 46
do wonders to be very effective in solving a problem
A long weekend away from work will do wonders for your peace of mind.

inadvertently without realizing what you are doing [= accidentally]

Viruses can be spread inadvertently by email users.

defer to delay something until a later time

The committee deferred the decision for six months.

reservoir a part of a machine or engine where a liquid is kept before it is used

Water is piped from the reservoir to the city.

seek to ask someone for advice or help

If the symptoms persist, seek medical advice.

to say nothing of used to introduce a further fact or thing in addition to those

already mentioned
It was too expensive, to say nothing of the time it wasted.

7-4 Reluctant

► I received taxi clearance to Runway 17... As I taxied onto the parallel

taxiway, I noticed that there was construction ahead.... At the end of the

ramp, I taxied toward the approach end of the runway... The Controller

advised me that I was past the hold line and to contact the tower as soon as

possible.... I feel that the tower could have given more information on the

end of the taxiway/holding area, but I am at fault for not asking for help when

I knew I needed it. Next time, I will be more aware of the signs on the airport

and I will not be reluctant to ask for help.

Aviation English 47
Questions

1. What violation did the speaker make?

2. Why does the speaker think he was at fault?

3. What does he say he will do next time?

7-5 Unwilling

► ... As I approached ZZZ, I did not believe the VORs were malfunctioning. I

thought I knew where I was, but...as I descended into a cloud layer, I

became disoriented and concerned that the localizer wasn‟t functioning

properly. Instead of asking for help, I saw the ground through holes in the

clouds and continued on toward where I knew the airport to be. I was

nowhere close to being on the approach and as a result, interfered with the

approach of another aircraft. [A] contributing factor was... my unwillingness

to ask for help when I realized I was disoriented. At any point, I could have

asked ATC for help, but I did not.

Questions

1. What was malfunctioning?

2. Why was the pilot disoriented?

Aviation English 48
3. What should he have done instead of looking through the clouds?

4. What was a contributing factor to creating a dangerous situation?

Vocabulary

contribute to help to make something happen

Stress is a contributing factor in many illnesses.

disoriented confused about where you are or which direction you should go
The pilot became disoriented in bad weather over the ocean.

interfere to prevent something from succeeding or from being done or happening

as planned
She never allows her personal feelings to interfere with her work.

malfunction a fault in the way a machine or part of someone's body works

The pilot noticed a malfunction in one of the engines.

unwillingness not wanting to do something and refusing to do it

They are unwilling to invest any more money in the project.

7-6 Self-conscious

► I departed...on a really hazy day...with a Special VFR clearance. On the

second leg of a multi-leg cross-country flight, I found myself in a situation

where I was not completely sure of my location. I mistakenly identified the

airport and approach asked me to switch to the CTAF frequency. When I

realized that I could not see the airport, I decided to continue on the next leg

to ZZZ. At this point I should have reestablished contact with approach

control and requested assistance... but, truthfully, I was too self-conscious

Aviation English 49
about admitting that I couldn‟t find the airport and opted to continue on my

own.... I had been to ZZZ several times, but today with my rising personal

frustration level, I was completely unable to locate the airport.... I was

becoming more and more disoriented and...wasn‟t really sure if I was going

the right direction.... Now I knew...that I was completely lost.... While I wasn‟t

in imminent danger of running out of fuel, I became quite concerned about

how I was going to get home.... I was flying in VMC, but the haze layer

below made it difficult to ascertain surface details. I returned to the last

frequency I had for approach. They asked me to squawk 7700.... The

haze layer was still quite dense, but with vectors from ATC, the return trip

was uneventful.... I realize that I should have admitted my mistake to

approach control.... I know they will do everything they can – if one simply

asks for help.

Questions

1. What was the problem?

2. Why didn’t the pilot request assistance when he couldn’t find the airport?

3. Was the pilot in danger of fuel shortage?

4. What was the visibility condition?

5. What did the pilot realize in the end?

Aviation English 50
Vocabulary

admit to agree unwillingly that something is true or that someone else is right
In the end he had to admit that I was right.

ascertain to find out the true or correct information about something

Tests were conducted to ascertain whether pollution levels have dropped.

dense difficult to see through or breathe in

dense black smoke

frustration the feeling of being annoyed, upset, or impatient, because you cannot
control or change a situation, or achieve something
People often feel a sense of frustration that they are not being promoted quickly
enough.

haze smoke, dust, or mist in the air which is difficult to see through
a haze of cigarette smoke

hazy air that is hazy is not clear because there is a lot of smoke, dust, or mist in it
Sunny but hazy weather is predicted for the weekend.

opt to choose one thing or do one thing instead of another

Many young people are opting to go on to college.

run out of to use all of something and not have any more left
We ran out of gas on the freeway last night.

self-conscious worried and embarrassed about what you look like or what other
people think of you
Teenagers are often very self-conscious about their appearance.

7-7 Hesitant

► I was controlling numerous aircraft on several frequencies. There was

considerable congestion and many blocked transmissions. There were other

controllers available, but a decision was made to use a coordinator

Aviation English 51
rather than splitting the sector. There was too much to keep track of.... [Two

aircraft] came within one mile and 100 feet separation. The conflict alert

brought my attention to the problem. Had the alert not been operational, the

result might have been catastrophic. I issued traffic alerts to [both aircraft].

There was too much traffic for one controller to safely handle. I should not

have hesitated to ask for help....

Questions

1. Why was the situation getting out of control?

2. What could have happened if there was not a conflict alert?

3. What does this sentence mean: ―Had the alert not been operational, the

result might have been catastrophic.‖?

4. What does the Controller think he should have done?

Vocabulary

block to prevent anything moving through a space by being or placing something

across it or in it
A fallen tree is blocking the road.

conflict clash
Kids are usually in conflict with their parents.

congestion full of traffic

congested airspace

hesitant (adj) uncertain about what to do or say because you are nervous or
unwilling
I was hesitant about approaching the boss directly.

Aviation English 52
hesitate (v) to pause before saying or doing something because you are nervous
or not sure
Don't hesitate to contact me if you need any more information.

split to divide or separate something into different parts, or to be divided into

different parts
The teacher split the class into groups of four.

Aviation English 53
 Unit 8

The Magic Words

8-1 Introduction

No, not the ones your parents taught you—―please‖ and ―thank you.‖ Rather,

the ones your flight instructor taught you—―Cleared for...‖ These magic

words apply to instructions for taxi, takeoff, landing, and entry into Class B

airspace. A reporter shares his experience of not verifying receipt of the

magic words.

8-2 Distractions

Even when the pilots are clear on the rules, distractions can set the stage for

not receiving the magic words.

► Landed without receiving landing clearance from Tower. The weather and

traffic were heavy... Just prior to marker...we had a lightning strike which

Aviation English 54
caused a momentary loss of navigation instruments. I believe this event

caused the First Officer not to switch over to the Tower, and I forgot to verify

that we had received a landing clearance. I landed and rolled out normally,

and realized we were on Approach Control frequency. When...distracted or

startled, even experienced pilots can make fundamental mistakes.

Questions

1. What is meant by ―magic words‖ and when are they used?

2. What can cause pilots to miss the ―magic words‖?

3. What happened after the lightning strike?

4. What did the pilot forget to do before landing?

Vocabulary

distracted anxious and unable to think clearly

Don‟t talk to her – she‟s very easily distracted.

distraction something that stops you paying attention to what you are doing
I study in the library because there are too many distractions at home.

fundamental relating to the most basic and important parts of something

We have to tackle the fundamental cause of the problem.

momentary continuing for a very short time [= brief]

There was a momentary silence.

rather used to say that one thing is not true, but a different thing is true
The problem is not their lack of funding, but rather their lack of planning.

Aviation English 55
8-3 “Roger”

According to the Pilot/Controller Glossary of the Airman’s Information

Manual (AIM), ―Roger‖ means, ―I have received all of your last transmission.‖

It should not be used by either pilots or controllers to answer a question that

requires a ―yes‖ or ―no‖ response. In this incident reported to ASRS, the pilot

of a small aircraft questioned a controller’s use of ―Roger‖:

► We were cleared by Tower to depart and climb northeastbound. [We

noticed] an aircraft approximately 50 feet below us...paralleling our course,

and climbing. I told the Tower we had traffic off our wing. The Tower

acknowledged by saying, “Roger.” The aircraft began turning northbound

towards us, at which point we took evasive action to avoid [a mid-air

collision]. The aircraft continued climbing and departed northbound. I

questioned the Tower again about the traffic, and again the Tower only

answered, “Roger.”

Upon landing, I telephoned the Tower to try to clear up several questions

about the Tower‟s responsibility. The Controller‟s response was that once

we had the traffic in sight, it was our responsibility to maintain visual

separation ...[and] that he was not in contact with the airplane in question.

The way the Controller stated “Roger” [on our initial call] gave me the

Aviation English 56
impression that the Tower was aware of the traffic and it was under his

control.

It appears that the pilot of the other aircraft was flying in Class D airspace

without contacting the Tower. The report doesn’t say whether the Tower

was radar-equipped. This does make a difference, since the conflict was

estimated to have occurred two miles from the airport, at 2,300 feet MSL.

If the Tower lacked radar, the Controller’s ―Roger‖ may have been

appropriate. However, an optional message from ATC – ―I’m not in contact

with the traffic‖ – would have been helpful to the pilot.

If the Tower did have radar, the Controller might have announced, ―You

have traffic at [clock position].‖ However, the AIM notes that the issuance of

a safety alert is contingent upon the Controller’s capability to have an

awareness of the situation. Controller workload, poor radar return of

transponder signals, and lack of aircraft transponders, can all reduce the

Controller’s ability to have this awareness. In this incident, the Controller

apparently had no knowledge of a second aircraft until the call-out from the

reporter.

Aviation English 57
Finally, the AIM and the FARs both state that the job of safely flying the

aircraft remains with the pilot. As the Controller observed, it was the pilot’s

responsibility to practice the see-and-avoid concept and to maintain

separation.

Questions

1. What impression did the Controller’s first ―Roger‖ give to the pilot?

2. Why did the pilot telephone the Controller after landing?

3. What did the Controller say in response?

4. How did the Controller become aware of the second aircraft?

5. What was the Controller’s response when he found out?

Vocabulary

avoid to prevent something bad from happening

The driver said he tried to brake to avoid the accident, but it was already too late.

capability the natural ability, skill, or power that makes a machine, person, or
organization able to do something, especially something difficult
Animals in the zoo have lost the capability to catch food for themselves.

collision an accident in which two or more people or vehicles hit each other while
moving in different directions
These airbags are designed to protect car drivers in head-on collisions.

concept an idea of how something is, or how something should be done

What's your concept of an ideal society?

contingent depending on something that may or may not happen

All payments are contingent upon satisfactory completion dates.

Aviation English 58
estimate a calculation of the value, size, amount etc of something
These are the figures, but they're only a rough estimate.

evasive to move or do something quickly to avoid someone being hurt

Both pilots took evasive action and a collision was avoided.

lack when there is not enough of something, or none of it

Lack of confidence is a psychological barrier to success.

maintain to make something continue in the same way or at the same standard as
before
The two countries have always maintained close relations.

observe to see and notice something

Have you observed any changes lately?

optional if something is optional, you do not have to do it or use it, but you can
choose to if you want to [≠ compulsory]
Certain courses are compulsory, others are optional.

workload the amount of work that a person or organization has to do

She's struggling to cope with the heavy workload.

Aviation English 59
 Unit 9

Intersection Interactions

9-1 Introduction

Some recent ASRS reports show that runway transgressions are often the

result of confusion about taxi instructions at runway/taxiway intersections. In

a report from a corporate aircraft First Officer, time pressure helped to fuel

the misunderstanding:

► The problem arose when we became rushed and distracted by our eight-

minute time limit to make our takeoff slot for flow control. The Controller

instructed me to cross the runway at Taxiway X, taxi the full length of

Runway 07, and hold short. I misunderstood the taxi instructions. I taxied

onto active Runway 07, and proceeded to back-taxi down the runway to turn

around and hold awaiting further takeoff instructions. What we really should

have done was cross Runway 07, taxi on the parallel taxiway, and hold short

at the end of the runway. The Controller questioned my actions, and told us

Aviation English 60
to taxi down and clear the runway immediately. As we were leaving the

runway, I saw an aircraft that I believe the Tower had sent around.

Questions

1. What was the problem?

2. Who could be blamed for it?

3. What were the contributing factors to the incident?

4. Why did the Controller tell the pilot to clear the runway at once?

Vocabulary

await to wait for something

We knew that blizzard conditions awaited us in Alaska.

corporate belonging to or relating to a corporation

fuel (v) to increase something; to make something stronger

His words fuelled her anger still more.

further more or additional

Visit our website for further details.

transgress to do something that is against the rules of social behavior or against a

moral principle

9-2 Runway Transgression

The instruction to ―cross the runway at Taxiway X‖ should have been a

heads-up to the crew not to taxi onto the runway. In a callback conversation

Aviation English 61
with an ASRS analyst, the reporter stated that in the future, the flight crew

will verify any clearance to taxi onto a runway. Absence of definitive ATC

instructions lured another corporate flight crew into a runway transgression.

The First Officer reports:

► We were cleared to land Runway 30. No “hold short of Runway 20” or

anything. On rollout, we were not given any taxi-off instructions because

Tower was busy with someone who was having radio problems. I believed

there was some traffic landing behind us, and I thought we should clear the

runway as soon as possible because that‟s what you are supposed to do.

We taxied clear of Runway 30 by turning onto runway 02/20, and stopped

awaiting further ATC instructions. The Controller told us in the future not to

taxi onto another runway because it messes up his separation.

In the landing clearance, the absence of a ―hold short‖ instruction was not

permission for the flight crew to enter Runway 20 and stop there. In this

case, there were intersecting taxiways shortly before and beyond the

intersection with Runway 20 which could have provided appropriate turn-

offs. The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) states that pilots should exit

the runway at the first available taxiway or as instructed by ATC. The AIM

Section 4-3-20 offers additional information on exiting the runway after

landing.

Aviation English 62
Questions

1. Why didn’t the Controller give taxi-off instructions?

2. What problem did this cause for the pilot?

3. What did the pilot do as soon as he landed?

4. What did the Controller tell the pilot not to do in the future?

Vocabulary

absence the lack of something or the fact that it does not exist [≠ presence]
The case was dismissed in the absence of any definite proof.

analyst a person whose job involves examining facts or materials in order to give
an opinion on them

definitive final; not able to be changed

The definitive version of the text is ready to be published.

lure (disapproving) to persuade or trick someone to go somewhere or to do

something by promising them a reward
Young people are lured to the city by the prospect of a job and money.

mess up to make something dirty or untidy

I don‟t want you messing up my nice clean kitchen.

9-3 Construction Zone

A report from a Local (Tower) Controller points out the increased

runway/taxiway confusion that can result during airport construction

activities.

Aviation English 63
► Ground Control requested to cross a small airplane at the departure end

of Runway 31. I approved it. This is a nonstandard operation due to the main

taxiway being closed for construction. The airplane pilot turned onto the

runway instead of crossing it as instructed. He observed a jet turning onto

Runway 31 [for departure]. He moved over to the edge of the runway, but

never said anything. The color of the aircraft and its position were such that

it blended in with the runway paint. I cleared the jet for takeoff, then

observed the airplane just prior to the jet rotating. After the jet passed over

the airplane, the airplane pilot asked Ground Control if he was in the right

place.

In a subsequent conversation with the Controller, the pilot indicated that he

was unaware that there was a parallel taxiway available, and so turned onto

the active runway. When airport construction or any other unusual activity

renders runway and taxiway operations non-standard, both pilots and

controllers need to use extra caution to ensure that taxi instructions are

clearly understood and followed. Pilots can give themselves an edge by

having airport diagrams close at hand to confirm taxi routes.

Aviation English 64
Questions

1. What did Ground Control request to do?

2. Why was this a non-standard operation in this case?

3. Did the small airplane exactly follow the instructions?

4. Why do you think the small airplane moved over to the edge of the

runway?

5. What could this negligence have caused?

6. Why wasn’t the small airplane seen on the runway?

7. The small airplane pilot asked Ground Control ―if he was in the right

place.‖ Was he?

Vocabulary

blend in if someone or something blends in with people or objects, they match

them or are similar, and you do not notice them
The thieves soon blended in with the crowd and got away.

ensure to make certain that something will happen properly [= make sure]
All the necessary steps had been taken to ensure their safety.

render to express or present something in a particular way

Both runways have been rendered useless by enemy bombings.

subsequent happening or coming after something else

Developments on this issue will be dealt with in a subsequent report.

unusual different from what is usual or normal

We had snow in April, which is very unusual.

Aviation English 65
 Unit 10

The Hurry-up Syndrome

10-1 Introduction

Prior ASRS research into the ―Hurry-up Syndrome‖ (the perceived or actual

need to hurry or rush tasks or duties for any reason) has revealed that most

time-pressure errors reported to ASRS occur during the preflight and taxi-out

phases. The results of rushing and hurrying often do not manifest

themselves until later flight phases, especially takeoff and departure.

Hurry-up pressures affect every segment of the aviation community – flight

attendants, air carrier flight crews, general aviation pilots, maintenance

personnel, and ATC. When the urge to hurry strikes, taking time to prioritize

tasks and adhering to strict checklist discipline will often catch a time-

pressure error before it occurs.

Aviation English 66
Questions

1. What is the ―Hurry-up Syndrome‖ and why is it important?

2. When do rushing and hurrying usually manifest themselves?

3. When do most time-pressure errors occur?

4. Which segment of hurry-up pressures is most affected by the aviation

community?

5. How can a time-pressure error be caught before it occurs?

Vocabulary
adhere to continue to behave according to a particular rule, agreement, or belief
I have adhered strictly to the rules.

catch to not be too late to do something, see something, talk to someone etc.
[≠ miss]
Tumors like these can be treated quite easily if they're caught early enough.

manifest to appear or become noticeable

The symptoms of the disease manifested themselves a few days later.

perceive to understand or think of something or someone in a particular way

She did not perceive herself as disabled.

reveal to make something known

The look on my face must have revealed my embarrassment.

strict a strict order or rule is one that must be obeyed

He's under strict orders from his doctor to quit smoking.

strike if something bad strikes, it suddenly happens or suddenly begins to affect

someone
It is always devastating when this illness strikes.

time-pressure error an error which is caused by the shortage of time

If you do everything in time, you can avoid time-pressure errors.

urge a strong wish or need [= desire]

Suddenly she had an overwhelming urge to be with her son.

Aviation English 67
10-2 Hurry-up in the Cabin

A flight attendant rushing to set up the galley overlooked a key duty –

causing the aircraft to return to the departure airport.

► ...I felt rushed to get the galley in First Class set up. When it was near

time for the entry door [to be] closed, I was rushing to put everything away

and securing the galley for takeoff. I didn‟t hear the command to arm the

doors for departure...When we reached a certain altitude, the Captain called

the purser to notify her that a warning light indicated that door 1R was not

closed properly. We looked at the door and then realized that the door was

not armed. We tried arming the door but couldn‟t. The Captain then

descended and proceeded to burn fuel for landing... When we got to a lower

altitude, the purser got a call from the Captain saying that the warning light

had gone out and we tried arming the door again. This time we were able to

do so. We landed safely and the mechanics I spoke to determined that the

door was not closed properly. They inspected the door, we refueled and left.

Questions

1. What duty was neglected by the flight attendant?

2. Why didn’t the flight attendant hear the command to arm the doors?

3. What safety precaution did the Captain make?

Aviation English 68
4. Could they land safely?

5. What did they finally do?

Vocabulary

determine to discover the facts about something

Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire.

proceed to do something next, after having done something else first

He outlined his plans and then proceeded to explain them in more detail.

properly correctly, or in a way that is considered right

The brakes don't seem to be working properly.

secure to protect something so that it is safe

She secured the rope firmly to the back of the car.

10-3 Hurry-up in the Cockpit

Rushing to get airborne on a mercy mission tripped up this BE100 pilot.

► It was an early morning departure to pick up human organs. In a rush to

get airborne, I overlooked the correct altimeter setting...The correct altimeter

setting was 30.73 inches. The previous crew brought the aircraft in when the

altimeter setting was 29.71 inches. In my pre-dawn haste, I simply adjusted

the altimeter up .02 inches thinking I had set 30.73 inches. The altimeter was

set at 29.73 inches. Leveling at 15,000 feet, [the] Center Controller asked

Aviation English 69
me to verify altitude. I replied „level 15,000 feet, confirm 29.73 inches.‟ He

replied with 30.73 inches and indicated my altitude was 15,800 feet. I

immediately reset the altimeter and leveled at 15,000 feet...

This event was influenced by my very early and short notice departure...I

simply allowed myself to be rushed and have the mistake to prove it. This

event goes against the very grain of a basic verification of flight instruments

prior to departure. In the future, I will not allow myself to be rushed. It is a

great example of how getting away from the basics causes bigger problems

in the short term. I will also remember that no one can rush you but yourself!

Questions

1. What was the cause of the Captain’s negligence?

2. Why was the Captain in a hurry?

3. What was his real altitude, and what did he think his altitude was?

4. How did the Captain realize his altimeter setting was wrong?

Vocabulary

grain a very small amount of something

There isn‟t a grain of truth in those rumors.

haste speed in doing something, especially because you do not have enough time
[= hurry]
In her haste to complete the work on time, she made a number of mistakes.

Aviation English 70
organ a part of the body, such as the heart or lungs
The liver is an extremely complex organ.

overlook to fail to see or notice something, or not see how important it is important
[= miss]
He seems to have overlooked one important fact.

pre-dawn before dawn

trip up to make or force someone to make a mistake

Read the questions carefully, because the examiners sometimes try to trip you up.

verification confirmation
automatic signature verification

10-4 Embarrassing Consequences

A B757 Captain suffered embarrassing consequences from a hung start –

and acknowledged that rushing may have contributed to the incident.

► ...The First Officer mentioned that he had a tight connection...to catch the

last flight to his home. I normally do not let myself become rushed, but this

may have been a contributing factor. We completed the preflight and pushed

back from the gate. After receiving clearance, I asked the First Officer to

start both engines. The left engine was started normally, and he asked if I

wanted to start the right. I said yes, that it would be a short taxi. As he was in

the process of starting the right engine, I was communicating with the

pushback crew. With everything done, I received a salute and release from

Aviation English 71
guidance. Then, and I don‟t know why, I glanced at the engine instruments

and believing the right engine was stable, shut down the APU. The engine

was not fully started and we got a hung start. The First Officer took out the

QRC and we agreed that the engine should be shut down. Maximum

temperature was about 350 degrees, way below max startup temperature.

Up to now, no harm, no foul. As the engine was spooling down, the First

Officer asked if we should motor the engine to keep the temperature coming

down. The right answer was, „What does the QRC say?‟ My answer was

„OK.‟ The First Officer opens the bleed valve and it did not take us long to

realize we sheared the starter shaft. My heart just sank. Never done

something that dumb in 35 years of flying big airplanes.

Shutting down the APU...was a recoverable error. All we needed to do was

complete the „abnormal engine start‟ QRC!... Lessons learned: always,

always, always use the checklist.

Questions

1. Why did they get a hung start?

2. What duty was neglected by the Captain?

3. What does the Captain think may be the cause of his negligence?

4. What should the Captain have done before takeoff?

Aviation English 72
Vocabulary

contribute to help to make something happen

Stress is a contributing factor in many illnesses.

dumb stupid
That was a pretty dumb thing to do.

embarrassing making you feel ashamed, nervous, or uncomfortable

It was so embarrassing – I couldn't remember his name!

glance to read something very quickly

I only had time to glance at the newspapers.

someone’s heart sinks used to say that someone suddenly lost hope and began
to feel unhappy
Her heart sank when she saw the number of books she had to read.

recoverable that you can get back after it has been spent or lost
Travel expenses will be recoverable from the company.

salute something that expresses praise to someone for something they have
achieved
He raised his hat as a friendly salute.

tight if time is tight, it is difficult for you to do everything you need to do in the time
available
The president has a tight schedule today.

Aviation English 73
 Unit 11

Situational Awareness

11-1 Introduction

Situational Awareness – or ―SA‖ as human factors specialists like to call it –

is a term referring to pilots’ ability to ―keep the big picture‖ in flight

operations. This includes awareness of the aircraft’s location and attitude, its

proximity to physical hazards and obstructions, weather and environmental

factors, engine and systems status, task priority within the cockpit, and many

other factors.

Loss of situational awareness is often associated with poor weather, aircraft

emergencies and other extreme situations. But more insidiously, loss of

situational awareness also occurs in good visual conditions during routine

operations. An air carrier Captain describes a case in point:

Aviation English 74
► While being vectored on a downwind leg to Runway 01L, Tower asked if

we had the field in sight, which we did. At that time, we were cleared for a

visual approach to Runway 01L and a left turn back to the field was initiated

to result in a final of approximately 6 miles. When approximately 60º from the

runway heading, Tower reported traffic (a B-757) joining a final for runway

01R. While looking for the traffic, the First Officer, who was flying the aircraft,

took his eyes off the field and shallowed his bank… When I realized he was

not just squaring off his final but was going to overshoot the runway, I told

him he was going to overshoot and ordered a turn back to our runway. He

seemed disoriented and was slow in responding, resulting in a significant

overshoot approaching the approach corridor for Runway 01R. A TCAS II-

Resolution Advisory resulted with a “monitor vertical speed” command which

was complied with. Tower questioned if we had the traffic in sight which we

answered in the affirmative. We corrected back to the 01L centerline and

landed with no further incident.

In talking to the First Officer after the landing, he indicated that he lost sight

of the runway in the left turn. Also, that he never actually saw the B-757.

Although I indicated that I saw the traffic and pointed it out, the First Officer

did not see it, but I assumed he did. I also assumed that he had the runway

in sight, so I was unaware that he had lost situational awareness.

Aviation English 75
The lesson to me is to never assume another crew member is seeing the

same thing I am and to work to communicate what I am seeing even when

weather is good and “easy” visual approaches are being conducted.

We trust this incident taught the First Officer the importance of

communicating clearly with other crew when he does not have other traffic

and the runway in sight.

Questions

1. What is situational awareness in flight operations?

2. What is the significance of situational awareness for pilots?

3. What was the situational awareness problem in this case?

4. What shows that the Captain sensed the First Officer was confused?

5. What was the Captain’s mistake?

6. What should the Captain have done to prevent the incident?

Vocabulary
associated with to be related to a particular subject, activity etc.
problems associated with cancer treatment

attitude orientation of aircraft’s axes: the angle of an aircraft in relation to the

direction of the airflow or to the horizontal plane

bank (n) slope to one side when turning

comply to do what you have to do or are asked to do

Failure to comply with these conditions will result in termination of the contract.

Aviation English 76
extreme very unusual and severe or serious
Children will be removed from their parents only in extreme circumstances.

indicate to say or do something to make your intentions clear

They have already indicated their willingness to cooperate.

initiate to make something begin

A large number of companies have initiated recycling programs.

insidious an insidious change or problem spreads gradually without being noticed,

and causes serious harm
A more insidious form of water pollution is chemicals used on farms that get into
the water supply.

overshoot to accidentally go a little further than you intended

The plane overshot the runway and plunged into a ditch.

proximity nearness in distance or time

The proximity of schools, stores, hospitals, and so on is an important factor when
purchasing a house.

shallow (v) to reduce

square off to adjust something so that it is at right angles to something else, or to

test something for its alignment

trust used to say politely that you hope something is true

I trust that from now on you will take greater precautions.

11-2 The Importance of Homework

Lack of preparation for flight into marginal conditions can contribute to a loss

of situational awareness that in turn can build to a near-catastrophe. The

pilot of a private jet who was the victim of a critical instrument failure,

explains:

Aviation English 77
► Localized area of moderate/heavy rain near and over destination airport.

Center controller reported, “it‟s only heavy rain, there‟s nothing in it.” This

was consistent with the pattern of the previous day or two. Carried out

normal VOR approach using Autopilot/Flight Director. At Missed

Approach Point began to climb on autopilot. Encountered very heavy rain,

moderate turbulence. At approximately 700 feet MSL (250 feet above

minimums) ADI failed with loss of all Autopilot/Flight Director functions. Pilot

had difficulty maintaining precise control over aircraft using backup

instruments due to turbulence and loss of position and altitude guidance.

Contributing factors: 1) backup instruments not set up for missed approach;

2) pilot did not study and prepare adequately for missed approach; 3) lack of

situational awareness when talking with the Controller due to lack of

familiarity with nearby landmarks, fixes and waypoints.

Corrective actions: Training should include setting up backup navigation

indicators for approach/missed approach in anticipation of primary ADI/HSI

failure. Pilots need to thoroughly memorize and set up missed approach

[procedure] because an emergency or equipment failure does not leave time

to read it while executing.

Aviation English 78
Questions

1. What caused the pilot’s loss of situational awareness?

2. What were the contributing factors to the incident?

3. How could the incident have been prevented?

Vocabulary

adequate enough in quantity or of a good enough quality for a particular purpose

[= sufficient; ≠ inadequate]
None of his workers received adequate safety training.

build to become greater or more powerful over a period of time

All the pressure built up and he was off work for weeks with stress.

catastrophe a terrible event in which there is a lot of destruction, suffering, or

death [= disaster]
Most people now accept that global warming could result in an environmental
catastrophe.

consistent continuing to happen or develop in the same way

To secure our future, we need a consistent economic strategy.

critical extremely important because a future situation will be affected by it

[=crucial]
Foreign trade is of critical importance to the economy.

in turn as a result of something

Working outside can mean too much sun exposure, which in turn can lead to skin
cancer.

marginal at or close to the lowest acceptable or viable limit

a marginal standard of living

precise information, details etc that are exact, clear, and correct [= exact]
Each plane has to follow a precise route.

thoroughly completely and with great attention to detail

The work had not been done very thoroughly.

waypoint significant point on a journey: a point on a journey or route where one

can stop or change course

Aviation English 79
 Unit 12

Margins of Safety

12-1 Introduction

Air Traffic Controllers are an integral part of most aviation operations, but

may sometimes lag flight crews in being informed about aircraft-specific

procedural changes. ASRS recently became aware of one such change

affecting Boeing 737 aircraft through the following pilot report:

► Relatively recently, as a result of the B-737 rudder problem, air

maneuvering speeds [for company B-737s] have been increased by as

much as 20 knots. So a heavy B-737-400, e.g., 119,000 pounds, has a

minimum maneuvering speed of 180 knots, at flaps 10º. To fly any slower

would require that the landing gear be extended prior to any flap setting

greater than 10º of flap being selected (or the gear warning sounds

continuously and cannot be silenced).

Aviation English 80
Tonight, on being vectored for an ILS approach to Runway 36L, we were

instructed to slow to 170 knots while more than 20 miles from the airport. We

requested to maintain our minimum “clean,” flaps-ups maneuvering speed of

230 knots (until within 20 miles of the airport). The Controller acknowledged

our request and vectored us farther out to allow for more spacing. Upon

being turned over to the final approach controller, still 26 miles from the

airport on a left base leg for Runway 36L, we were again instructed to slow

to 170 knots. We advised the Controller that our minimum maneuver speed

would be 180 knots, until within 10 miles of the airport (the point at which it

would be somewhat realistic to put the landing gear down, and then

additional flaps, allowing a slower speed).

The Controller could not understand why we did not wish to fly at 25 miles

from the airport, with landing gear down at flaps 15º and 170 knots. It is

important to note that there was a 22-knot tailwind on the approach, all the

way down to 400 feet AGL… No wonder that ATC had a 25-mile final

approach course… We were at close to our maximum landing weight, too.

This [controller questioning] was a major distraction to me, and increased my

workload. We did slow to 180 knots, 25 miles from the airport… Pilot

concurrence is required to slow below 210 knots when greater than 20 miles

from the airport. I would much rather be taken out farther on a vector for

Aviation English 81
spacing, or hold, than to have a jet transport, fully configured for landing

more than 25 miles from the airport… I am recommending [that] an

awareness program for ATC controllers be initiated regarding increased

B-737 maneuver speeds, particularly at high aircraft gross weights.

Following an industry/government evaluation, the Boeing Company issued

recommended increases in maneuvering speeds for the B-737-100 through

500 series aircraft by means of Operations Manual Bulletin TBCE-11. The

main effect of these changes was to increase aircraft maneuvering speeds

10 knots for approach and landing at flap settings UP through 10 degrees.

We hope our reporter’s heads-up about the revised B-737 maneuvering

limits will help get the word out to the ATC community.

Questions

1. What did the Controller instruct the Captain to do during approach?

2. Why couldn’t the Captain follow the Controller’s instructions?

3. What does the Captain complain about?

Vocabulary

affect to do something that produces an effect or change in something or in

someone's situation
Emergency relief will be sent to the areas most affected by the hurricane.

Aviation English 82
community a group of people who have the same interests, job, religion, race etc.
the academic community

concurrence an example of events, actions etc happening at the same time

an unfortunate concurrence of events

heads-up an early warning to someone that something undesirable is soon to

happen

integral forming a necessary part of something

Music should be an integral part of children's education.

lag (v) to slow down; to cause to slow down

We still lag far behind many of our competitors in using modern technology.

no wonder it is not surprising

No wonder you‟re tired, you‟ve been walking for hours.

silence (v) to stop someone or something from making a noise

She held up her hand to silence the children.

12-2 Cellular Resource Management

Commercial airline passengers are reminded during every preflight briefing

to turn off electronic devices that may interfere with aircraft systems –

including cell phones. Now here’s a report that suggests what’s good for the

cabin, is good for the cockpit, too.

► The Captain filed the flight plan late, so I could not pick up the clearance

until just before the passengers showed up. We were issued the SID with

transition. I did not have time to look up the SID because the Captain was in

Aviation English 83
a hurry to taxi out. He was making calls on a cell phone while he taxied out

so I still could not talk to him. Tower put us in position and hold on Runway

30L while I yelled for the Captain to turn off his cell phone. He finally did

when they cleared us for takeoff. We never did brief the takeoff or the SID.

Once airborne, the Captain asked me what we were supposed to do. I tried

reading the text and gave him some of the instructions as I read them. I got

confused at one point about how to join the transition and told the Captain.

He turned the wrong way. ATC asked what radial we were trying to join…

They told us to turn right to 140º to continue the SID and to call Approach

once on the ground.

This would never have happened if the Captain had not been in such a hurry

to get going, AND if he had been paying attention to flying duties while

taxiing out, instead of talking on his cell phone…

We’re sure this type of event is rare, but it nonetheless illustrates the

importance of effective cockpit management skills (and training). In effective

CRM, flight crews make flying duties their first priority, and First Officers

participate constructively in resolving problems.

Aviation English 84
Questions

1. Why did the First Officer pick up the clearance so late?

2. Why couldn’t the First Officer talk with the Captain while taxiing out?

3. Why didn’t the Captain and the First Officer brief the takeoff or the SID?

4. What did they do wrong when they were airborne?

5. What is implied by Cellular Resource Management? Does it make

sense?

Vocabulary

constructive useful and helpful, or likely to produce good results

We welcome any constructive criticism.

nonetheless in spite of the fact that has just been mentioned [= nevertheless]
The problems are not serious; nonetheless, we shall need to tackle them soon.

rare not seen or found very often, or not happening very often [≠ common]
Snow is a rare sight here, except on the mountains.

remind to help someone remember something, especially something important

that they must do
Passengers are reminded that no smoking is allowed on the train.

resolve to find an acceptable solution to a problem or difficulty

Both sides met in order to try to resolve their differences.

show up to arrive, especially at the place where someone is waiting for you
[= turn up]
It was getting late when she finally showed up.

yell to shout or say something very loudly, especially because you are frightened,
angry, or excited
He opened the door and yelled out "Anybody home?''

Aviation English 85