Phrases & Expressions

To adjust the altimeter to the local pressure (QNH) so it shows altitude above sea level.

• Set QNH when you descend through the transition level.
• Pilots set QNH so the altimeter shows altitude above sea level.

To fly an instrument approach to an airport, especially in poor weather.

• The pilot decided to shoot the approach despite the crosswinds.
• We have enough fuel to shoot the approach one more time.

Cruising at a lower altitude when one engine is not operating.

• Single engine cruise requires careful fuel management.
• After the engine failure, the crew descended to the single engine cruise altitude.

To set the transponder to code 7500, which tells air traffic control that the aircraft is being hijacked.

• The crew did not squawk seven five zero zero because the threat had not been confirmed.
• If the aircraft is hijacked, the crew should squawk seven five zero zero.

To set the aircraft's transponder to code 7700 to show an emergency.

• After the cabin smoke event the captain decided to squawk seven seven zero zero and declare an emergency.
• Crews squawk seven seven zero zero only when the problem is truly serious.

Describes wine aged in contact with the yeast sediment (lees) after fermentation.

• This Chardonnay was aged sur lie.
• The sur lie aging gives it a richer texture.

To move an aircraft slowly on the ground to the correct place on the runway, ready for takeoff.

• The pilot was told to taxi into position and hold.
• We watched the plane taxi into position before its flight.

A voice warning from the aircraft's terrain warning system that high ground is ahead.

• The system announced, 'Terrain ahead, pull up!'
• Listen for the 'terrain ahead' warning.

On a PAPI, a light pattern showing that an aircraft is slightly below the correct approach path.

• Three red, one white means slightly low.
• When he saw three red, one white, he added a little power.

Visual indication that an aircraft is slightly above the correct glide path.

• Three white, one red means slightly high.
• The pilot saw three white, one red.