Phrases & Expressions

The distress call made when the fuel left on landing would be below the final reserve.

• The pilot declared MAYDAY fuel because the reserve fuel was almost used up.
• After the long hold, the crew had to report MAYDAY fuel to the controller.

An automatic cockpit warning that the aircraft is about to fly into windshear.

• During the approach, the system called out "windshear ahead" and the crew went around.
• If "windshear ahead" sounds before takeoff, the crew should not take off.

Refers to the left and right sides of a ship or aircraft.

• Check the navigation lights on port and starboard.
• Every sailor must know port and starboard before leaving the harbour.

Measured in a straight line from one place to another, not along roads.

• The towns are only ten miles apart as the crow flies.
• As the crow flies, it's a short trip, but the roads are winding.

To leave the marked path or route, especially when hiking.

• It is dangerous to go off-trail in bad weather.
• They decided to go off-trail to explore.

In the area of low air pressure directly behind a fast-moving vehicle or rider.

• The cyclist rode in the slipstream of the leader to save energy.
• Racing cars save fuel by driving in the slipstream of the car in front.

Completely gone or abandoned, often suddenly, so that it no longer matters.

• When the baby arrived, all our holiday plans went out the window.
• With the new manager, all the old rules went out the window.

The vast, open ocean, far from land.

• The ship sailed out into the deep blue.
• Many mysteries lie within the deep blue.

The white navigation light at the tail of an aircraft.

• The white tail light helps identify the aircraft's rear.
• Ensure the white tail light is working properly.

Wanting to do something and also having the ability to do it.

• We need volunteers who are willing and able to work at weekends.
• My grandmother is still willing and able to look after the children.