What are some effective ways to communicate with the cockpit crew during an emergency?

1 Use standard terminology

One of the most important aspects of communication with the cockpit crew is to use standard terminology and phrases. This ensures that both parties understand each other and avoid confusion or misunderstanding. For example, you should use the term "flight deck" instead of "cockpit", "cabin" instead of "passenger area", and "emergency" instead of "situation" or "issue". You should also use the standard emergency codes, such as "Code Red" for fire, "Code Blue" for medical emergency, and "Code Green" for security threat.

2 Be concise and specific

Another key factor of communication with the cockpit crew is to be concise and specific. You should avoid unnecessary or irrelevant details, opinions, or emotions, and focus on the facts and actions. For example, you should state the location, nature, and severity of the emergency, the number and condition of the people involved, and the actions you have taken or need to take. You should also avoid vague or ambiguous terms, such as "some", "a lot", or "maybe", and use precise numbers, names, or descriptions.

3 Follow the communication protocol

A third aspect of communication with the cockpit crew is to follow the communication protocol. This means that you should use the correct channel, frequency, and call sign, and follow the proper sequence and format of the message. For example, you should use the interphone system for normal communication, the emergency call button for urgent communication, and the PA system for public announcements. You should also use the standard call sign of "Purser" or "Cabin Crew" followed by your name or position, and end the message with "Over" or "Out".

4 Listen and confirm

A fourth aspect of communication with the cockpit crew is to listen and confirm. This means that you should pay attention to the messages from the flight deck, acknowledge them, and repeat back the key information or instructions. This ensures that you have received and understood the message and that there are no errors or discrepancies. For example, you should say "Roger" or "Copy" to acknowledge the message, and repeat back the emergency code, the location, or the action required.

5 Be calm and professional

A fifth aspect of communication with the cockpit crew is to be calm and professional. This means that you should maintain your composure, tone, and volume, and avoid panic, anger, or frustration. This helps to create a positive and cooperative atmosphere and to avoid stress or conflict. For example, you should use a polite and respectful language, avoid shouting or interrupting, and express gratitude or appreciation.

6 Seek feedback and assistance

A sixth aspect of communication with the cockpit crew is to seek feedback and assistance. This means that you should ask questions, clarify doubts, or request help if you are unsure, unclear, or need support. This helps to improve your understanding, performance, and safety. For example, you should ask for confirmation, explanation, or repetition if you are not sure about the message, ask for guidance, advice, or resources if you are not sure about the action, and ask for backup, relief, or supervision if you are overwhelmed or exhausted.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?