Aviators often speak “pilot English” to avoid miscommunications over radio transmission. “Tree” for instance, means three, “fife” is the number five and “niner” means nine, says Tom Zecha, a manager at AOPA. The variations stemmed from a desire to avoid confusion between similar-sounding numbers, he says.

Why is nine said as Niner?

Pilots and air traffic controllers say niner instead of nine to distinguish it from other numbers. Radio transmissions may not be crystal clear, and with any disturbances on the frequency, nine could be easily confused with five, given they are one-syllable and rhyme.

Why do pilots say Wilco?

“Wilco” is shorthand for “will comply.” It has the same meaning when used by the military as when used by pilots or anyone with a radio. In fact, the phrase was likely created for military use.

What does pilot say before take off?

There is an announcement like: Flight attendants, prepare for take-off please. Cabin crew, please take your seats for take-off. Within a minute after take-off, an announcement might be made reminding passengers to keep their seat belts fastened.

What do airline pilots say before take off?

There is an announcement like: Flight attendants, prepare for take-off please. Cabin crew, please take your seats for take-off. Within a minute after take-off, an announcement might be made reminding passengers to keep their seat belts fastened.

Can pilots see other planes?

Answer: No, the pilots and air traffic controllers know when airplanes will pass each other. While a passing airplane may look close, it is actually distant. Remember that airplanes can be separated vertically as well as laterally.

How do you respond to Roger Wilco?

If you respond, with Roger, wilco, that should be acceptable as it implies that you both heard, and will comply with the instruction.