Bridging General and Aviation English in EFL: Insights from Cockpit and Cabin

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD student in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) at The University of Tehran, Kish International Campus

2 Department of English Language and Literature, The University of Tehran

Abstract

English proficiency is central to aviation safety, yet the pedagogical relationship between General English (GE) and Aviation English (AE) remains insufficiently examined in EFL contexts. This qualitative study investigates how 34 Iranian cockpit and cabin crew members perceive the functions of GE and AE in their professional communication. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis to identify recurring patterns in participants’ experiences. The findings indicate a clear functional distinction supported by consistent reports across participants. GE was frequently associated with handling unexpected situations, clarifying misunderstandings, and maintaining interpersonal interaction, while AE, aligned with ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements, was viewed as essential for accuracy, brevity, and safety in routine operational exchanges. Most participants emphasised that reliance on memorised AE phraseology without sufficient GE competence reduced communicative flexibility in non-standard scenarios. The results point to the need for a more integrated TEFL–ESP approach. Participants highlighted the value of communicative and task-based instruction, blended learning, and short, focused activities that connect everyday English with aviation phraseology. These findings suggest that strengthening GE alongside AE can better prepare aviation personnel for both routine procedures and unexpected communication demands

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Main Subjects

References

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