Training and Safety Tip: Learn the lingo

I have found its premise to be true—both in how other people respond to what I’m wearing, and perhaps even more importantly, in how I respond to myself. I find that if I dress professionally, I feel professional, and then I act accordingly. And, no, I’m not telling you to run out and buy a white Van Heusen aviator shirt with epaulets, although if that makes you feel professional, be my guest. But here’s the deal: In most professions, the first impression you make is determined by how you look. In aviation, it is often based on how you speak.

So how do you “dress for success” on the radio? First, you have to speak the language of aviation properly and fluently. And don’t kid yourself, aviation radio-speak is a distinctive language, separate from English, from which it derived.

Formally referred to as "phraseology," the language of aviation radio communication has syntax and vocabulary. Basic syntax is laid out in the FAA’s Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), Chapter 4, Section 2: Radio Communications Phraseology and Techniques. It’s a dry read but not too long and pure gold. Next, build your vocabulary by studying the Pilot/Controller Glossary in the back of your FAR/AIM. It’s the dictionary of aviation.

Then, just like mastering any other language, once you’ve got the basics down, go out and listen to others speak. If you have a handheld radio, listen to air traffic communications as often as you can, when driving, when doing dishes. Or tune into LiveATC on the internet. However, and this is important, don’t do either until after you’ve studied the AIM. Why? Because some of the people you’ll hear on the radio aren’t communicating properly and you need to know what constitutes acceptable aviation phraseology before you start listening. That way you can recognize improper communication. I wouldn’t want you picking up any bad habits.