Phrases & Expressions

To descend following a published arrival route or procedure, including all its level and speed restrictions.

• Descend via the published arrival route and expect runway two seven.
• The controller cleared us to descend via the STAR to flight level 80.

A cabin crew command after landing to disarm the door slides.

• After landing, the purser announced "Doors to arrival and cross-check".
• When the aircraft stopped at the gate, the captain called doors to arrival.

Phrase used by a controller to tell a pilot that radar service has ended.

• Radar service terminated, contact Ankara Information on 126.5.
• Radar service terminated, squawk VFR, frequency change approved.

A radio call in which a pilot asks air traffic control to leave the cleared route, usually to avoid bad weather.

• Requesting deviation ten miles left of track due to weather.
• Requesting deviation twenty degrees right to avoid a thunderstorm.

Strong shaking or bumping of an aircraft, where loose objects may fly.

• Severe turbulence can be quite frightening for passengers.
• The plane dropped suddenly in severe turbulence.

To prepare for an activity or event, or to get someone ready for it.

• The team is gearing up for the final match next week.
• Shops are gearing up for the busy holiday season.

In air traffic control, to stop and wait before a runway or another given point.

• The controller told the pilot to hold short of runway 27.
• We were told to hold short of the runway while another aircraft landed.

At heights above the transition altitude, where height is given as a flight level based on standard pressure.

• We are now in the flight levels.
• The aircraft climbed into the flight levels.

An automated or pilot announcement indicating the decision height or minimum altitude has been reached.

• The system announced 'Minima minima' at the decision height.
• Hearing 'minima minima' means you must decide to land or go around.

Sleeping or living in a tent, especially while camping.

• The explorers lived under canvas for weeks.
• It was a true adventure, sleeping under canvas.