English for Flight Attendants

To study the English that flight attendants need to use, non-native speakers can follow these steps and use the following resources:

1. Understanding Basic Requirements

• Vocabulary and Phrases: Learn common aviation terminology, emergency phrases, and customer service language.
• Pronunciation and Clarity: Focus on clear pronunciation, as communication in the aviation industry must be precise.
• Listening Skills: Enhance listening skills to understand passengers’ needs and follow instructions from the cockpit.

2. Recommended Resources

• Books:
  • English for Cabin Crew by Sue Ellis and Lewis Lansford: This book offers practical language skills and scenarios specific to cabin crew duties.
  • Flightpath: Aviation English for Pilots and ATCOs by Philip Shawcross: Although primarily for pilots and air traffic controllers, it contains valuable aviation English that is useful for flight attendants.
  • English for Aviation by Henry Emery and Andy Roberts: This book covers various aspects of aviation English, including vocabulary and communication skills.
• Online Courses and Websites:
  • Coursera: Look for courses on aviation English or customer service in aviation.
  • edX: Similar to Coursera, it offers courses that can enhance aviation-related communication skills.
  • Aviation English Asia: Provides specific training programs and resources for aviation English learners.
  • BBC Learning English: Offers general English improvement resources, including listening and speaking practice.
• Apps and Tools:
  • Duolingo: Use for general English practice to build vocabulary and grammar skills.
  • Memrise: Focus on aviation-specific vocabulary and phrases.
  • Speechling: Helps improve pronunciation and speaking skills with feedback from native speakers.

3. Improvement Strategies

• Role-playing: Practice common in-flight scenarios with peers or language partners to build confidence and fluency.
• Listening Practice: Listen to in-flight announcements, safety demonstrations, and customer service interactions on YouTube or other platforms.
• Pronunciation Practice: Use tools like Forvo or Speechling to improve pronunciation of difficult words.
• Join Online Communities: Engage with forums or groups related to aviation, such as AvGeek forums, to immerse yourself in aviation culture and language.
• Practice with Native Speakers: Use language exchange platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk to practice speaking with native English speakers.

4. Additional Tips

• Consistency: Regular practice is key to improvement. Set aside time each day for studying and practicing English.
• Feedback: Seek feedback on your speaking and writing from native speakers or language teachers.
• Stay Updated: Keep up with changes and updates in aviation language and regulations.

By using these resources and strategies, non-native speakers can effectively improve their English skills specific to the needs of flight attendants.

Flight Attendant PAs