Flight School Slang: 15 Pilot Terms You’ll Start Saying Without Realizing

If you’re just starting flight school, get ready—not just to fly, but to talk like a pilot. Aviation has its own unique dialect, and before you know it, you’ll be tossing around terms that confuse your non-pilot friends. Here’s a fun, beginner-friendly guide to 15 flight school slang terms you’ll soon be using like a pro.

1. Roger
   A radio call meaning “I’ve received your message.” No, it’s not just a guy’s name.
2. Squawk
   Used when setting your aircraft’s transponder code. “Squawk 1200” is VFR standard in the U.S.
3. Cleared to Land
   ATC phrase you’ll dream of hearing during training. It means you’re good to go for touchdown.
4. Pattern
   Short for “traffic pattern,” the standard rectangular route around an airport. You’ll fly this a lot.
5. Deadstick
   An engine-out situation. Pilots practice deadstick landings to prepare for emergencies.
6. Line Guy/Gal
   Ground crew members who fuel, tow, and assist aircraft on the ramp. Your best allies on the field.
7. Ramp
   Pilot-speak for the airport’s parking area, not to be confused with a freeway exit.
8. Crosswind
   Wind blowing across the runway, not aligned with it. You’ll get to know it well.
9. Final
   The last leg of the traffic pattern before landing. “Turning final” means you’re lining up for the runway.
10. Touch and Go
    A practice maneuver where you land and take off again without stopping. Expect to do a lot of these.
11. Fuel Up
    Pilot shorthand for getting gas—usually avgas or Jet-A, depending on your aircraft.
12. FBO
    Fixed Base Operator. A pilot’s version of a pit stop, with fuel, snacks, and maybe even a lounge.
13. Go-Around
    Aborting a landing and flying another traffic pattern lap. It’s not failure—it’s safety.
14. Base
    The leg of the traffic pattern before turning final. You’ll hear yourself saying, “Turning base…” a lot.
15. Checkride
    Your big flight test with a designated examiner. Pass this and you’re officially a pilot.

Wrap Up

Starting flight school is like entering a new world—one that comes with its own language. These slang terms will become second nature before you finish your private pilot license. So next time you tell a friend you’re “on final,” don’t be surprised when they ask if you’re landing a plane or finishing a project.

Ready to Learn the Lingo Firsthand?
Find a flight school near you and start speaking (and flying) like a pilot today!