Chapter 1: Dawn in Tehran
I wake up early in my Tehran apartment. The city is quiet, and the sky is painted with soft colors of purple, pink, and orange. My morning begins with a simple routine a quick shower, breakfast, and checking the weather reports.
Weather in Iran can change quickly, from snowy mountains in the north to deserts in the south. As a first officer, understanding the weather is my first job every day. Clear weather reports help me prepare for a safe flight. Checking wind speed, visibility, and possible storms becomes second nature.
Chapter 2: Understanding the Weather
Checking the weather report involves studying forecasts carefully. Clouds, wind speed, visibility, and temperature can affect flight safety. Weather reports provide words like "visibility," "wind speed," "cloud cover," and "temperature." Knowing these helps me plan better and ensures the safety of everyone onboard.
Chapter 3: Arriving at the Airport
After breakfast, I arrive at Mehrabad International Airport. The airport is bustling with activity—passengers, baggage handlers, ground staff, and other crew members moving quickly around.
I head to the crew briefing room to meet Captain Reza. We review our flight details carefully—destination, expected flight time, and special considerations. Every piece of information helps us fly safely and comfortably.
Chapter 4: The Pre-flight Checklist
Captain Reza and I start our before start checklist. This list helps us check every important system on the airplane before taking off.
“Fuel?” asks Captain Reza.
“Checked, 28,500 LBS,” I reply confidently.
“Hydraulic system?”
“Checked, working normally.”
We check each item carefully, such as flaps, landing gear, engines, and instruments. The checklist is repetitive, but this routine keeps our flights safe. Every pilot depends on this important step.
Chapter 4: Bonding with the Cabin Crew
Next, we meet our Purser. We greet each other warmly, discuss flight details, and plan for safety. Cabin crew members are our important partners. They help passengers feel safe and comfortable during the flight.
We talk using aviation English words like "altitude," "heading," "cruising speed," and "turbulence." Clear communication with the cabin crew makes flights safer and smoother.
Chapter 5: Final Preparations
Before passengers board, the captain performs a final walk-around inspection of the airplane. He carefully check the wings, engines, tires, and flaps. Everything must be safe and working correctly.
Completing these checks gives me confidence. It reminds me that careful preparation is the key to safe flying.
Chapter 6: Pre-flight Briefing
Before passengers board, we conduct a crew briefing. Captain Reza explains our route, weather along the way, and any special instructions.
"Today’s flight to Shiraz looks clear with slight turbulence," he explains. "Our cruising altitude will be 31,000 feet."
The crew listens carefully and asks questions. Clear instructions help everyone work together smoothly during the flight.
Chapter 7: Boarding and Final Checks
Passengers begin boarding, and excitement fills the airplane. I complete final checks and talk with the control tower. They give me instructions in Aviation English.
“Flight 230, taxi to Holding Position runway 29 Right.”
“Taxi to Holding Position runway 29 Right, Flight 230," I respond clearly.
Using clear Aviation English helps everyone understand quickly and keeps us safe.
Chapter 7: Taking Off
We line up on the runway, engines humming strongly. I quickly re-check everything in my mind.
Captain Reza announces, “Ready for takeoff?”
“Ready,” I reply, feeling excitement and focus.
The engines roar, the airplane speeds down the runway, and then lifts off gently. We’re airborne! Every flight starts with excitement, responsibility, and a love for flying.
Chapter 8: Flying Over Iran
Flying above Iran, we enjoy the beautiful view. Mountains, deserts, and cities pass below us. As pilots, we feel proud connecting people safely across distances.
During the flight, Aviation English helps us communicate clearly with controllers and other pilots. Clear communication ensures safe and smooth journeys.
Chapter 9: Challenges in Flight
Every pilot faces challenges—bad weather, busy skies, or technical issues. When challenges arise, teamwork and clear Aviation English communication are crucial.
One time, a sudden storm required us to change our route quickly. Good communication helped us adjust our flight path safely and keep passengers calm.
Chapter 10: Landing Safely
Approaching our destination, I communicate with air traffic controllers clearly.
“Flight 230, cleared to land Runway 29 Left."
"Cleared to land Runway 29 Left, Flight 230," I reply.
A smooth landing is a result of good teamwork, careful planning, and clear Aviation English communication. Landing safely fills me with pride and joy every time.
Chapter 11: Post-flight Reflections
After landing and saying goodbye to passengers, the crew and I review our flight. We discuss what went well and what could be improved. Every flight teaches valuable lessons.
Conclusion
Being a pilot is an incredible journey. Every step—from pre-flight checks to smooth landings—relies on clear communication, preparation, and teamwork. My routine helps me stay safe, calm, and confident.
For every aspiring pilot, remember this: preparation, clear Aviation English skills, and teamwork make the difference between a good pilot and a great one.
Glossary
- Aerodynamics: How air moves around an airplane.
- Airborne: When an airplane is flying.
- Altitude: The height of an airplane above sea level.
- Briefing: A meeting to share important information before or after a flight.
- Cabin Crew: Airline staff helping passengers during flights.
- Checklist: A list of important items checked before flight.
- Cockpit: Where pilots control the airplane.
- Cruising speed: The regular speed during a flight.
- Hydraulics: System controlling airplane parts using fluid pressure.
- Runway: The road airplanes use for takeoff and landing.
- Taxi: When an airplane moves on the ground.
- Technical issues: Problems with airplane equipment.
- Turbulence: Sudden shaking or bumpy air during flight.
Safe travels, and keep learning! Visit learn-aviation.com for more aviation English resources and inspiring stories.