Unfamiliar Aviation Terms Quiz: Recognize These Rare Air Traffic Control Expressions?
So You Think You Know ATC? Here's a quiz on aviation lingo
Let's test your aviation knowledge with some common and not-so-common terms ATC might use. See how well you fare!
1. Blind Speed
A Blind Speed is a scenario when an aircraft's closing rate causes it to disappear on the radar screen due to being mistaken for ground clutter.
2. Flameout Pattern
If a fighter loses engine power, the pilot might perform a flameout pattern. This involves flying an approach over the runway and continuously turning 180 degrees until power is restored.
3. NORDO
An aircraft that can't communicate or isn't communicating when they're supposed to is NORDO. That's gear-speak for "No Radio."
4. Skyspotter
A 'skyspotter' is a pilot who has received training in observing and reporting inflight weather conditions.
5. STOP STREAM
You probably won't hear this over the radio, but it's an ATC request for a pilot to stop using their electronic jamming equipment.
6. Words Twice
Communication problems can occur, especially due to language barriers. In such cases, ATC users may request "Words Twice." That means you need to repeat every phrase twice for clarity.
Well, that was a tough quiz...
You scored [SCORE] Better luck next time.
Nice work. You have these phrases down...for the most part.
You scored [SCORE] Nice work.
Well, you pretty much aced this quiz.
You scored [SCORE] Well done.
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Enrichment Data:
Blind Speed:- This term originated in radar and air defense systems but is rarely used in ATC communication. It refers to a speed at which a radar system cannot distinguish moving objects, causing targets to appear stationary. In ATC, if used, it would generally signify primary radar limitations, though not a standard ATC term.
Flameout Pattern:- A "flameout" occurs when an engine fails due to combustion interruption, most commonly due to fuel starvation. A "flameout pattern" refers to the designated procedure an aircraft follows after experiencing an engine flameout. While not commonly heard over the radio, it is crucial for organizing aircraft flow during emergencies and minimizing collision risks.
NORDO:- "NORDO" stands for "No Radio." Indicates an aircraft is unable to establish or maintain radio communication with ATC demands special procedures to ensure safety, such as using light gun signals or alternative communication methods.
Skyspotter:- While not officially recognized or universally standardized in ATC or pilot glossaries, "Skyspotter" could refer to an individual or system providing supplementary visual observation of aircraft.
STOP STREAM:- "STOP STREAM" is a tactical or military ATC term primarily used for instructing aircraft to cease following a specific stream of aircraft (line or flow) for traffic management, collision avoidance, or traffic reorganization purposes.
Words Twice:- "Words Twice" is not a formal ATC phrase but may be used to ensure clarity in poor communication conditions or during training. It asks pilots or controllers to repeat all transmissions for confirmation or to enhance understanding.
- The scenario where an aircraft's closing rate causes it to disappear on the radar screen due to being mistaken for ground clutter is known as a Blind Speed.
- In the event of a fighter losing engine power, the pilot might perform a flameout pattern - an approach over the runway while continuously turning 180 degrees until power is restored.
- An aircraft that can't communicate or isn't communicating when they're supposed to is referred to as NORDO, gear-speak for "No Radio."
- A pilot who has received training in observing and reporting inflight weather conditions is known as a 'skyspotter'.
- Although you probably won't hear this over the radio, ATC might request “STOP STREAM” for a pilot to stop using their electronic jamming equipment.
- Communication problems can occur, and in such cases, ATC users may request "Words Twice," meaning you need to repeat every phrase twice for clarity, especially due to language barriers.
- In the world of aviation, the term IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) is used to describe flights conducted under specific weather conditions, using navigation and communication equipment rather than visual references to the ground.
- The aviation industry is heavily reliant on the transportation of aircraft for both passengers and cargo. Finance plays a critical role in the purchasing, maintenance, and operation of these airplanes.
