Pilot words in English in English
Learn what pilots mean by niner, Roger, Wilco, and Mayday.
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Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Pilots say 9
ICAO standard: 3 = tree, 5 = fife, 9 = niner
I got your message
Standard phrase: I have received all of your last transmission
I understand and will do it
Short for will comply; if you say Wilco, you don't need Roger too
Distress call
From French m'aider (help me), used since 1923, said three times
Quick answers
Number 9: what to say in English
Say “Niner.” — pilots say 9. ICAO standard: 3 = tree, 5 = fife, 9 = niner.
Message received: what to say in English
Say “Roger.” — i got your message. Standard phrase: I have received all of your last transmission.
Will do: what to say in English
Say “Wilco.” — i understand and will do it. Short for will comply; if you say Wilco, you don't need Roger too.
Save this: what to say in English
Say “Mayday.” — distress call. From French m'aider (help me), used since 1923, said three times.