Phrases & Expressions

To decide to stop an aircraft's takeoff before it leaves the ground.

• The pilot must abort takeoff if there is a problem.
• They had to abort takeoff due to engine failure.

An instruction in aviation meaning a flight plan has been approved exactly as it was submitted.

• The pilot received clearance: 'Cleared as filed.'
• Our flight plan was cleared as filed, so we could depart on time.

To climb very steeply and rapidly.

• The plane climbed like a homesick angel.
• He accelerated and climbed like a homesick angel.

To disengage the automatic landing system and take manual control.

• The pilot decided to disconnect autoland.
• The captain will disconnect autoland if the weather suddenly improves.

In aviation, a phrase used to confirm that an aircraft's landing gear is fully extended and secured in place for landing.

• The pilot confirmed, 'Landing gear is down and locked.'
• We heard the call 'down and locked' just before touchdown.

The airspace between the ETOPS entry point (EEP) and exit point (EXP) where specific regulations apply.

• The aircraft entered the ETOPS area over the ocean.
• ETOPS area navigation requires careful planning.

To push the engine throttles to their maximum position for full power.

• The pilot had to firewall the throttles for the emergency climb.
• Firewall the throttles for maximum acceleration.

A mnemonic to warn pilots about altimeter errors when flying from high to low pressure areas.

• Remember: high to low look out below.
• Flying into lower pressure, the instructor reminded us: high to low, look out below.

A Japanese saying meaning one time, one meeting; every gathering is unique and should be treasured.

• Ichigo ichie is brushed in calligraphy on many tea-room scrolls.
• Ichigo ichie reminds host and guest that this exact afternoon will never come again.

A TCAS resolution advisory telling the pilot to climb at a higher rate.

• When TCAS called "increase climb", the pilot climbed more steeply.
• The crew followed the increase climb advisory within seconds.