Flying - English

Describing the Act of Flying

Flying involves several key moments, starting with the airplane taking off from the runway. As the aircraft ascends, it becomes airborne. During the journey, the pilot may announce when the plane will descend toward the destination. After descending, the plane will land safely. Sometimes there can be turbulence—most passengers prefer when the flight is smooth. To avoid confusion, remember that if an aircraft experiences a serious problem, it might crash, but this is extremely rare.

Some example sentences:

• The airplane will take off at 8:00 AM.
• We ascended quickly after the takeoff.
• The pilot announced that we are beginning our descent.
• We landed after a smooth flight.
• The plane was airborne for six hours.

Naming the Parts of an Airplane

Understanding the basic parts of an airplane helps when reading signs or safety instructions:

• The cockpit is where the pilot controls the airplane.
• The engine powers the plane, while the propeller may be found on smaller aircraft.
• The fuselage is the body of the airplane where passengers sit.
• The landing gear is needed for takeoff and landing.
• The tail helps with stability.
• The tip refers to the very end of a wing.

Example sentences:

• The pilot sits in the cockpit.
• The landing gear was lowered before landing.
• Baggage is stored in the fuselage.

Describing Airplane Safety Features

When you fly, it is important to know the common safety features:

• Each seat has a seat belt or belt to keep you safe during takeoff, landing, and turbulence.
• The safety card in the seat pocket shows emergency instructions.
• There’s usually an airbag in some seat belts.
• If necessary, use the emergency exit to leave the aircraft quickly.
• Life vests are under the seat for water landings.
• Oxygen masks drop if cabin pressure drops.
• The fire extinguisher can be used by the crew.
• Look for the warning light above your seat; it signals when to fasten your seat belt.

Describing Air Travel Experiences

The airport and airplane have many elements and procedures before, during, and after a flight:

• At the check-in, you receive a boarding pass and can check a bag.
• After the security check, you wait in the departure lounge until your flight is called.
• When it’s time, go to your gate to board the plane.
• On board, a flight attendant helps passengers.
• Store your bag in the overhead bin, and fasten your seat belt in your seat.
• If your flight arrives in another country, you may have to clear customs and show your passport and visa.
• After landing, go to baggage claim to find your luggage.
• Sometimes a flight is delayed or you may have a layover.
• Lost luggage can happen, but staff will assist.
• Traveling can sometimes cause jet lag if you cross time zones.
• If you don’t reach the gate in time, you might miss a flight.

Describing the Sensations of Flying

Flying makes people feel many different things:

• You may feel excited about the trip.
• Some passengers can be nervous or even be scared during takeoff, landing, or turbulence.
• Many feel relaxed once the plane is in the air.
• For others, being in the sky gives a sense of feeling free.
• Good pilots and clear instructions help passengers feel safe.

Naming Things Related to the Process of Flying

Several words are frequently used when flying or talking about travel in general:

• Your airline is the company you are flying with.
• Arrival refers to reaching your destination; departure is leaving your starting place.
• Customs checks are necessary for international flights.
• Your destination is the place you are flying to.
• Your flight information includes the gate and time zone information.
• Luggage and passport are always needed.
• Sometimes you need to transfer to another flight.

Example sentences:

• My airline is on time today.
• I have to show my passport at customs.
• We transferred flights in Paris.
• I arrived at my destination after a long flight.