What does flew west mean?

Some pilots might interpret the phrase to mean that the dead pilot will always be flying under the sun, always flying west to keep up with it. Either way, it’s a pleasant thought for those of us who fly and who mourn loved ones and colleagues who have finally “slipped the surly bonds of earth.”

Why do pilots say fly west?

When a pilot dies, we say they “Flew West”. Those were the dead ones. “Aerobatics is incredibly fun, but it can be unforgiving,” he told me. “These are my friends and competitors who died, doing aerobatics.”

What does a pilot say when the plane is landing?

To indicate the landing clearance or final approach, the Captain will either make the following announcement and/or blink the No Smoking sign. “Flight attendants, prepare for landing please.” “Cabin crew, please take your seats for landing.” It may be followed by an announcement by a flight attendant.

Why do pilots say rotate on takeoff?

Pilots say rotate to indicate that the airplane has reached its rotation speed, which is the speed at which the airplane can take off safely without stalling.

Do all pilots speak English?

All pilots who fly internationally are required to speak English as required by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards. Using English as the global aviation language helps provide clear communication between pilots and air traffic controllers to prevent accidents and incidents.

Why did warthogs fly over a US Air Force funeral?

The Warthogs flew over the burial service for retired US Air Force Col. Avery Kay, considered the father of the A-10s. On September 18, 2017, missing man formation was performed by three Sukhoi-30MKI of the Indian Air Force during the funeral ceremony of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh in New Delhi.

Why do airplanes fly directly over funerals?

They fly straight and level over the gravesite and then, directly over the service, the No. 3 plane pulls away while the others fly straight ahead. Symbolically he’s headed for heaven. It’s the highest form of respect we can pay to a fallen airman. Everyone involved in such a service considers it an honor. The fliers. The honor guard.

Why do military planes fly in formation over gravesites?

It’s a four-ship formation. They fly straight and level over the gravesite and then, directly over the service, the No. 3 plane pulls away while the others fly straight ahead. Symbolically he’s headed for heaven. It’s the highest form of respect we can pay to a fallen airman.

Who was the first person to receive a non-RAF funeral?

U.S. Navy F/A-18 jets fly a Missing Man formation at a memorial service for astronaut Neil Armstrong on 31 August 2012. In 1936, King George V received the first recorded flypast for a non-RAF funeral. The United States adopted the tradition in 1938 during the funeral for Major General Oscar Westover with over 50 aircraft and one blank file.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTx868LW–8