We recently discussed the concept that we all have a driving desire to be a part of something bigger than ourselves; we want to identify as part of a group.

We create various strategies for making this connection. For example we might wear a particular garment or drive a particular car, we might align ourselves with a certain person, or hang out in an exclusive location. I suppose there are multiple reasons for these decisions and behaviors, some of them even healthy!

One more way we identify, a means that I would like to showcase here, is by affecting the way we communicate. Communication is definitely a big identifier for pilots. The way we handle interactions with each other says a lot about our background, our professionalism, and our breadth of experience. Some of these conventions make us smile inside, while others repulse us. They define our tribe!

How do you react when you hear these?

“Got ’em on the fish-finder”

“We’ll do it”

“Roger, 31Jay”

How about these?

“November 1531Juliet has traffic on base in sight,”

“1531Juliet holding short of runway 1-6,”

“November 1531Juliet, enter midfield left downwind runway 1-6.”

Your reaction will say a lot about where you stand. I hesitate to put a value statement on the two camps, but one indicates a “seasoned” approach while the other indicates a strict adherence to FAA standards. Interestingly you are more likely to hear the “seasoned” lingo coming from a novice pilot and the compliant lingo coming from a seasoned pilot.

I guess we all go through phases, Shakespeare’s seven stages of man so to speak. When we are mere pilot-lings we may put on the affected language that says we’re too cool for complete responses whereas when we become experienced we oft-times regain a respect for the importance of complete responses.

One last thought on this subject, from the perspective of a primary instructor, is that sometimes I notice a young student so focused on his carefully rehearsed, seasoned script that his radio call is devoid of relevant facts:

“Good afternoon Beverly Control Tower, this is Cherokee November 1531 Juliet. We’re holding here short of runway ahhhhhhhhhhhh 1-6 and we’re ready for takeoff.”

Then the response comes back:

“Tcht, 1531Juliet, say direction of flight.”

So much effort to beg membership in the Tribe, that the facts of the event are compromised.

All of this really falls into the realm of observation, I’m avoiding saying too much about right and wrong from my perspective as an instructor.

Have fun out there, be yourself, and if you really want to fit in, be sure you’ve walked the walk before you focus too much on talking the talk.