Top 10 English Slangs for Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer

Top 10 English Slangs for Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer 1. Bird When someone in aviation says 'bird,' they're not referring to the feathered creatures. Instead, it's a common slang for an aircraft. So, if you hear 'bird' over the radio, you know it's time to pay attention to an aircraft. 2. Bolter A 'bolter' refers to a failed landing attempt. It's when an aircraft, during an approach, decides to abort the landing and takes off again. This could happen due to various reasons, such as an unstable approach or poor visibility. 3. Deck In naval aviation, the 'deck' is the aircraft carrier's flight deck. It's the bustling area where aircraft take off and land. When you hear 'on deck,' it means an aircraft is ready for launch or recovery. 4. FOD FOD stands for 'Foreign Object Debris.' In an aviation context, it refers to any object, big or small, that doesn't belong on the flight deck or runway. FOD can be a serious safety hazard, as it can damage aircraft or cause accidents. 5. Meatball The 'meatball' is a visual landing aid on aircraft carriers. It's a set of lights that helps pilots maintain the correct glide path during landing. If the pilot sees the meatball centered, they know they're on the right track for a safe landing. 6. Shooter A 'shooter' is the ALRO responsible for launching aircraft from the carrier's catapult. It's a high-pressure job, as the shooter needs to ensure a smooth and precise launch, considering factors like wind speed and aircraft weight. 7. Traps When an aircraft lands on an aircraft carrier, it's called a 'trap.' The term originated from the early days of naval aviation when arresting gear, or 'traps,' were used to stop the aircraft's forward motion upon landing. 8. Paddles In the absence of modern radio communication, hand signals were used to guide aircraft on the carrier deck. The personnel responsible for these signals were called 'paddles.' Though radio is now the primary means of communication, the term 'paddles' still lingers. 9. Charlie When an aircraft is ready for launch, it's referred to as 'Charlie.' So, if you hear 'Charlie on the cat,' it means an aircraft is in position and all set for takeoff. 10. WOCL WOCL stands for 'Wave-Off Control Lights.' These lights, located near the carrier's landing area, are used to signal a pilot to abort the landing and go around for another attempt. The lights provide a clear and immediate indication, even in low visibility conditions. Conclusion: Mastering the Aviation Lingo As an ALRO, your ability to understand and use these slangs not only enhances your professional image but also ensures smooth and effective operations. So, make it a point to familiarize yourself with these slangs and continue exploring the rich world of aviation terminologies. Happy learning!