Article published In:
Language Problems and Language PlanningVol. 27:3 (2003) ► pp.233–248
Miscommunication between pilots and air traffic control
Language confusion is a frequent cause of pilot error. Although English was made the common language of world aviation in 1951, miscommunication and crashes in which communication was a contributing factor are common. Standard phrases used by air traffic controllers in the United States contain numerous confusing elements. These include ambiguities, misnomers and illogicalities. Phrases are not derivations of a master plan as they should be. The inability of English to express specific directions to pilots without confusion disqualifies it as a language for permanent use by aviation.
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