English words related to work at the airport. Dialogue at the airport in English: basic phrases that will make flying easier

As Anthony Price aptly put it, the devil redesigned hell by learning about airport planning. Indeed, travelers sometimes have to wander around the airport for a long time, hoping to find the right gate or exit in principle. It is especially difficult for those who are abroad: without knowledge of English, it can be very, very difficult to navigate the terrain. But what if the flight is very soon, and you have forgotten English? For you, we have developed a complete and understandable phrasebook on the topic "English at the airport", as well as detailed instructions on how to navigate at the airport abroad. At the end of the article there is free material with all the phrases, as well as a dictionary with useful vocabulary on the topic "English at the airport".

So, you have decided to go abroad by plane. A trip to another country promises to be exciting, and you are already happily packing your bags. However, once again putting the cat out of the bag, you suddenly remember that on the way back you will need to book a ticket, communicate with airport and customs officials - and all this will have to be done in English. It is good that we have foreseen this situation and have prepared for you the simplest instruction with useful phrases in English for communication at the airport. Learn and enjoy!

Ticket booking

You can order a ticket (to book a ticket) online, by phone or at a special point of sale. Imagine that you buy a ticket at the box office. Do not forget to clarify the details about the flight (a flight): are there intermediate landings, is it possible to take a seat at the window (a window seat), are discounts provided for your ticket. Use our selection of phrases for ordering tickets in English.

PhraseTranslation
Starting a conversation
I'd like to make an airline reservation.I would like to book a plane ticket.
I'd like to book a seat to Moscow.I would like to book a ticket to Moscow.
One business class / economy class ticket to Moscow, please.One ticket to Moscow in business/economy class, please.
I'd like to make a reservation on the Moscow flight.I would like to book a ticket for a Moscow flight.
I'd like to make a reservation on the 7.45 evening flight from London to Boston.I would like to book an evening flight from London to Boston at 19:45.
Ticket price questions
How much is an air ticket to Moscow?How much does a plane ticket to Moscow cost?
How much is a child's ticket?How much is a child ticket?
Is there any discount?Are there any discounts?
Flight questions
What flights are to Moscow Domodedovo?What flights are there to Domodedovo Airport in Moscow?
Is it a connecting flight?Is this a connecting flight?
Does the flight land somewhere before the final destination?Does this flight have stopovers?
Is that a direct flight?Is that a direct flight?
Where do we land before the final destination?Where will we have an intermediate landing?
How long does the flight take?How long is the flight?
Do they serve food?Will they be fed during the flight?
What can I take to the cabin?What can I take with me to the salon?
Wishes for the place
I'd like a window seat, please.I would prefer a window seat please.
I'd like an aisle seat, please.I would prefer a seat next to the aisle, please.
Clarifying questions
Is there a bus to the airport?Is there a bus to the airport?
What time do I have to check in?What time should I check in for a flight?
Where do I check in?Where do I check in?
When is boarding time?When is the landing?
When does boarding begin?When does boarding start?

The operator will explain all the details to you and ask clarifying questions in English.

PhraseTranslation
Where will you be flying?Where are you flying to?
What is your final destination?What is your point of arrival?
Do you prefer a window seat or an aisle seat?Do you prefer a window seat or an aisle seat?
Flight number 777 will take off from LaGuardia Airport at 7.45 PM.Flight 777 will depart from LaGuardia Airport at 19:45.
The plane starts boarding at 7 p.m.Boarding for the flight will begin at 19:00.
Boarding will start 45 minutes before the departure time.Boarding will begin 45 minutes before departure.

You can call back a few days after booking a ticket and confirm the reservation, change the ticket or report the cancellation of the reservation. Do this with the following phrases:

PhraseTranslation
I'm calling to confirm my reservation for tomorrow. It's on British Airlines flight 777.I'm calling to confirm my booking for tomorrow. This is British Airlines Flight 777.
I'd like to change my reservation.I would like to change my booking.
I'd like to cancel my reservation.I would like to cancel my booking.

Now let's imagine a different situation: you were going to be abroad for a couple of weeks, but a few days after your arrival, your boss calls you and says that you need to urgently return to work. In this case, you urgently stuff all your things into a suitcase and go to the airport to buy a ticket for the first flight. You can use the same phrases as when booking at the box office. Here are a couple more suggestions you might find useful:

PhraseTranslation
When is the next flight to London?When is the next/nearest flight to London?
Will this flight leave on time?Will this flight depart on schedule/on time?
Can I get my refund for another ticket?Can I get a refund for another ticket?

If you book a ticket online, it is important for you to remember a few words and phrases. Consider the form of purchase using the example of the AZair service.

Word/PhraseTranslation
returnA round-trip ticket
one wayA one-way ticket
take me anywheretake me anywhere (search for suitable destinations according to your parameters)
search might take a little longersearch may take a little longer
cheapest flights between datesthe cheapest flight within the specified time period
when to flywhen is the flight
depart soonest ondeparture not earlier
return latest onreturn no later than
fly on fixed datesfly on certain dates
I want to stay... dayswant to stay for... days
advanced search parametersadvanced search settings
return to same depart airportreturn to the same airport from which you departed
return from same arrival airportreturn from the same airport you arrived at
stop over timetransplant duration
outbound timeflight time to destination
inbound timereturn flight time
transfer only inside Shengen areatransfer only in the Schengen area
allow ground transfer between airportsallow ground transportation between airports
travelersnumber of passengers
adultadult
childchild
infantbaby
only direct flightsonly direct flights (no transfers)
I don't mind waiting at the airport overnight.I don't mind spending the night at the airport.
next flight can be next daynext flight could be the next day
show prices in...show prices in...

Arrival and registration

We think it is not worth reminding you once again that you need to arrive at the airport 2-2.5 hours before departure, then you will calmly resolve all issues and be on time for the flight.

if you have e-ticket We recommend that you print it out in advance. In addition, you can check in online (online check-in) for the flight in advance and receive a boarding pass (a boarding pass), which will indicate the number of the terminal (a terminal) where you need to arrive and the seat number on board aircraft. We advise you to go to the airport website, look at the map and find out in advance where the terminal you need is located. There you can also find out if a bus (a shuttle) goes to it and how to get to the terminal faster. Such simple steps will allow you to speed up the check-in procedure for your flight and avoid hassle. If you checked in online, you will need to find a self-check-in (a drop-off) counter at the airport.

After you arrive at the airport, look for a departures board. On it you can see information about the flight - the inscription on-time (on time), delayed (the flight is delayed) or cancelled (cancelled). In addition, the information board will show the number of the check-in counter/desk for your flight.

At the check-in desk, airport staff will check your documents. If you only have a ticket, you will be given a boarding pass here. Also, at check-in, you check in all luggage, except for hand luggage(carry-on luggage). You can find out more about what hand luggage is allowed in this airline on the company's website.

Are you checking in a vase that you bought as a gift for your beloved grandmother? Then ask to have the mark “fragile” (fragile) on your luggage. Grandma approves! When checking in your luggage, use the following phrases in English:

Airport staff will communicate with you using the following phrases:

PhraseTranslation
May I see your passport, please?Your passport please.
Do you have any luggage?Do you have luggage?
You have to check-in your luggage.You must check in your luggage.
Open your case for examination, please.Please open your suitcase for inspection.
How many pieces of baggage do you have?How much luggage do you carry? (number of bags)
Place your bag on the scale.Put your bag on the scale.
Do you have any carry-on luggage?Do you have any carry-on baggage?
Carry-on can't weigh more than 10 kilos.The weight of hand luggage must not exceed 10 kg.
Your luggage is 6 kilos overweight.The excess of your luggage is 6 kg.
Your luggage is overweight.Your baggage is overweight.
I'm afraid, you'll have to pay for excess luggage.I'm afraid you will need to pay extra for overweight.

customs control

You have safely checked in your luggage and are lightly going through customs control. Here your documents will be checked again. In order not to delay yourself and other passengers, put all metal items and electronic devices out of your pockets and go through the metal detector frame. At the same time, hand luggage is also scanned for the presence of prohibited items. Customs officers may use the following phrases when communicating with you:

PhraseTranslation
Put your tablet out of your bag, please.Please take your tablet out of your bag.
Take out your cell phone and place it on the tray, please.Please take out your mobile phone and put it on the tray.
Take off any metallic items and put them on this tray, please.Please remove all metal objects and place them on this tray.
You can't take this liquid on the plane.You cannot take this liquid on a plane.
Open the bag, please.Please open your bag.
Do you have anything to declare?Do you have anything to declare?
Do you have anything forbidden in your suitcase: drugs, guns, explosive materials?Do you have prohibited items in your suitcase: drugs, weapons, explosives?
Is there anything sharp or dangerous in your hand luggage?Do you have any sharp or dangerous items in your hand luggage?
I must confiscate these goods.I have to confiscate these things.
You may pass on.You can pass.

When communicating with airport staff, the following phrases may come in handy:

PhraseTranslation
I have nothing to declare.I have nothing to declare.
I need a customs declaration form.I need a declaration form.
How much liquor can I take?How much alcohol can I carry?
How many cigarette blocks can I take?How many packs of cigarettes can I bring?
I have only my personal belongings.I only have personal items.

Boarding a flight

Did you quickly complete all registration circles? If you have a lot of time, go to the waiting room (a departure lounge). And if you have not only time, but also some money, do not deny yourself the pleasure of walking through a duty-free shop.

You can also walk around the airport grounds. You can navigate on the map - let's see the scheme of Heathrow airport.

Word/PhraseTranslation
public areaspublic places
passenger areasplaces for passengers
baby caremother and baby room
baggage claimplace of baggage claim
car hirecar rental
meeting pointmeeting point
wireless hotspotinternet access point
immigration requirementsimmigration control
self check-in pointplace for self check-in
cash machinesATMs
post officePostal office
VAT returnVAT refund stand
hotel reservation centerhotel booking center
group arrivals meeting pointgroup meeting point
game grid amusementsslot machine hall
customs red pointred customs corridor (for goods declaration)
airline enquiriesairport information service
mezzanine levelthe lowest floor
first floorfirst floor

After walking around the airport, buying perfumes, cosmetics and grabbing a couple of bottles of good alcohol for gifts, you hear your flight being boarded. Pressing to the chest dear to my heart purchases and an empty wallet, go to the desired exit (a departure gate). The gate number is indicated on the boarding pass, as well as on the information screens at the airport. We recommend that you pay attention first of all to the information on electronic displays, as sometimes airports change the gate numbers for a flight shortly before the landing announcement. You will need to show your boarding pass before boarding. Don't lose it: it's usually stamped with a baggage check-in number, so you'll need it upon arrival.

During your stay in the lounge, you may hear various announcements at the airport in English. Understanding them will also be useful:

PhraseTranslation
Tickets and luggage registration for flight number 777 to Moscow proceeds at stand 5.At counter number 5, the check-in of tickets and luggage for flight number 777 to Moscow continues.
Flight number 777 of Lufthansa Airlines has been delayed until 7 p.m.Flight number 777 Lufthansa airlines Airlines is delayed until 19:00.
Tickets registration for flight number 777 to Moscow is completed.The registration of tickets for flight number 777 to Moscow has been completed.
The gate closes 15 minutes before departure.The gate closes 15 minutes before departure.

In airplane

Finally, you are on board the plane. Congratulate yourself - you have successfully passed the most difficult stage of your flight. Now you can relax and get some sleep. Just before that, you need to find your place. To do this, use the following suggestions:

PhraseTranslation
Where is the seat 15A?Where is location 15A?
Could you please direct me to my seat?Could you show me where is my place?
Could I change seats with you?Can I switch places with you?
I would like to change my seat.I'd like to change seats.
Could you help me with my carry-on luggage?Could you help me with my hand luggage?
Could I have a blanket, please?Could you bring me a blanket, please?
I would like something to drink.I'd like a drink.
Can I have another drink?Can I have another drink?
May I recline my seat?Can I recline the seat back?
Sorry, can I get past?Excuse me, can I go?
I don't feel very well.I feel bad.
I want an airsickness bag.I need a hygiene bag.

Before or during a flight, a flight attendant makes several important announcements. They usually include the following phrases:

PhraseTranslation
Welcome board.Welcome aboard.
We will be cruising at 10,000 meters.Our flight will take place at an altitude of 10,000 meters.
Please stow your hand luggage in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you.Please place your carry-on luggage on a shelf above you or under the seat in front of you.
Even if you are a regular traveler, please listen carefully to the following announcement for your own safety.Even if you travel frequently, please listen carefully to the following safety rules.
Please, fasten your seat-belts for maximum security and turn off all electronic devices. Our plane is ready to take off.Please fasten your seat belts for maximum safety and turn off all electronic devices. Our plane is ready to take off.
Make sure your seat belt is fastened.Make sure your seat belt is fastened.
Smoking is prohibited throughout the flight.Smoking during the flight is prohibited.
Your lifejacket is under your seat.Your life jacket is under the seat.
The emergency exits are located here, here and here.Emergency exits are here, here and here.
Please put your chairs into an upright position.Please bring the seat backs to an upright position.
We are approaching an area of ​​turbulence.We are approaching a zone of turbulence.
Your oxygen mask will drop down from above.Your oxygen mask drops out from above.
Please, remain seated until the plane comes to a complete standstill.Please remain in your seats until the aircraft comes to a complete stop.

At the airport of arrival

Landing! We hope the landing was smooth. To make our phrasebook as complete as possible, let's imagine that you are arriving in an English-speaking country. In this case, at the airport of arrival, you need to go through customs again and passport control, as well as fill out a declaration if you are importing goods for sale or goods whose total value exceeds the established norm. In addition, customs officers will ask about the purpose of arrival and place of accommodation. You may be asked the following questions in English at the airport of arrival:

PhraseTranslation
What is the purpose of your visit?What is the purpose of your visit?
How long are you planning to stay?How long do you plan to stay in the country?
How long do you intend to stay?How long do you intend to stay here?
Where will you be staying?Where will you stop?
Have you ever been to the USA before?Have you been to the USA before?
Have you filled out your customs declaration?Have you completed the customs declaration form?
How much foreign money/currency have you got?How much foreign currency do you have with you?
Any foreign money?Do you have foreign currency?

To give a confident answer, use the following phrases:

PhraseTranslation
It is a business trip.I am on a business trip (about the purpose of my visit).
It is a pleasure trip.I came to rest.
I am traveling the world.I travel the world.
I'll be staying for one week.I am going to stay in the country for one week.
I'll be staying at a hotel / relatives place / friends place.I will stay at a hotel / with relatives / with friends.
This is my first visit.This is my first visit (to the country).
May I have another customs form?Can I have another declaration form?

The final part of our flight epic is baggage claim. You need to go to the transport belts and see which one has your flight number on it. Upon receipt, be sure to check the number on the boarding pass and the number on the tag on your bag - they must match.

Unseen circumstances

It's good if the flight goes off without a hitch. But what if something happened to you? Contact the airport staff for help using the following phrases:

PhraseTranslation
I have lost my ticket / boarding pass /passport / carry-on luggage.I have lost my ticket / boarding pass / passport / hand luggage.
I have lost my child.I have lost my child.
I have lost my group.I lagged behind the group (tourist).
I didn't receive the claim tag when I checked in.I did not receive the claim tag when I checked in.
My baggage is broken, and some things are missing.My luggage is damaged and some things are missing.
My luggage hasn't arrived.My luggage has not arrived.
My luggage has been lost.My bag is lost.

Prepare all the necessary documents in advance and put them in one folder, which will always be in your hands. You can also purchase a handy an aircraft document organizer. We recommend that you make photocopies of all documents and put them in your luggage or hand luggage. That way, if you lose the originals, at least you will have copies, and it will be easier for the police to help you.

2. Do not take anything extra on board

Do not take sharp items with you (sharp items) like a nail file (a nail file) - this will save you from unnecessary explanations at customs control. Check the airline's carry-on baggage requirements in advance: food is usually allowed to take baby food, fruit, and even sandwiches. Pack liquids in small containers with a volume of no more than 100 milliliters each and no more than a liter in total and put in a transparent cosmetic bag with a zipper. If you need to take a certain medication for medical reasons, take care of a special certificate from your doctor in advance. It is also worth clarifying whether an umbrella (an umbrella), a suitcase (a suit bag) and a laptop (a laptop) are included in the established weight of hand luggage or are considered separately.

3. Language will bring to London

Even if an unfamiliar airport seems like a labyrinth of the Minotaur to you, remember that there is a way out from here too. Ariadne's thread, or rather, help, will be offered by any airport employee, do not hesitate to contact him. The main thing - do not panic. As soon as you realize that you are lost, find the airport information desk (an information desk) - their desks are located throughout the building.

4. Practice on learning dialogues

In addition to the above phrases, it will also be useful to listen to examples of dialogues that can take place at the airport. As you listen to these audio recordings, repeat the phrases to help you remember them better. You can find airport dialogues in English at espressoenglish.net and talkenglish.com. In addition, it is worth fixing the learned phrases on practical exercises, for example, on the website agendaweb.org, where there are many tasks for those who are going on a trip.

And if you want to feel comfortable on a trip, we suggest you download - its main character Alexey Chaikin will lead a tour of London and help you communicate with foreigners without any problems.

Complete list of words and phrases for download

At the end, we suggest you download a document that contains all the useful words and phrases from the article.

(*.pdf, 312 Kb)

Now you have stocked up with all the necessary vocabulary for conducting a conversation in English at the airport. Try to remember it and boldly go on the road. We wish you a pleasant flight!

The plane is considered the safest and most convenient way to travel, especially over long distances when you need to swim across the ocean or reach the opposite edge of a huge mainland. Often tourists meet phrases in English at the airport, the meaning of which they do not know. What are the main terms, what do they mean and where can you find them? This article will help you understand.

Common terms in English: what they mean

What English words tourists can meet in the building of the airfield, airport or train station.

First of all, "airport" - in fact, the "airport" itself:

  • "waiting area" - a similar phrase means a waiting area where passengers can rest if they arrive before the start of boarding;
  • "conveyor belt" - after checking the documents, the employees will ask the passenger to place the checked baggage - "baggage conveyor";
  • "schedule" - a landing schedule or, more simply, a schedule, information is regularly updated there and you can immediately see delays or transfers of flights;
  • "delay" - a delay, if this word is suddenly displayed on the scoreboard along with the name of the desired flight, then it will be late;
  • « estimated” translation into Russian at the airport is an approximate time. Usually found on the scoreboard next to the name of the flights, which means that this is an approximate (not exact yet) departure / departure time;

Airport signs

  • "departure" - departure, which means - the time of the expected departure of the aircraft is indicated;
  • "seat" - a place, this word can be used by employees inside the aircraft, showing the passenger where to sit;
  • "call off" / "call in" - recall / call;
  • « departed” translated into Russian at the airport means departure, so the plane takes off or departs at the time indicated there;
  • "leave" - ​​leave or leave, may refer to baggage / hand luggage or flight;
  • "transfer" - transfer, this can be specified by the cashier or the employee who checks the submitted documents;
  • "seat belt" - each passenger must necessarily check its presence and performance, seat belt;
  • "till" - usually this word is accompanied by another - "before" or "until";
  • “drop” is the standard translation of “drop”, but if related to the terms found at the airport, then it means like “decrease”, used as “the plane is going down”.

Important! Regardless of the peculiarities of the language, the procedure for accepting documents and checking luggage is the same everywhere. Therefore, it is better to get a ticket, passport, coupon in advance and keep them nearby. If there are terms such as “delay” or “estimated” on the scoreboard next to the name of the desired flight, you should clarify their meaning with the employee. Perhaps the flight was delayed for some unknown reason.

Where what terms are used at the airport

The word "landed", often used with others, means "landing". For example, landed translation at the airport means that the plane has landed (sat down): "aircraft landed" - "the plane has landed."

"Booking office" - an expression meaning "cash desk" where you can purchase or change an existing ticket. More often, a ticket is purchased online in advance, but it happens when flights are rescheduled or a person changes their own plans. To make an online purchase at the airport, there is a “book online” service - “booking via the Internet”.

It doesn’t matter how the tickets were originally purchased, but, in addition to them, any passenger will need a “boarding pass”, in other words, a “boarding pass”.

Attention! Without a ticket, they will not let you through the “check-in for the flight” - in English this is “check-in for the flight”.

Most airlines allow passengers to print coupons at the same time as the purchased ticket. When purchasing a ticket, you should specify in advance whether a return is required. This will be asked by the cashier at the airport in English.

After checking in, the passenger proceeds to the “custom service” customs control hall, where he may be asked to show the bag, go through a special archway. Customs officers ask standard questions: do passengers have dangerous / prohibited items, is it possible to inspect luggage. They will ask you to get everything metal.

Registration

Landing. When customs control is finally passed, the next stage is the landing of the plane. All announcements should be carefully monitored. For example, if the scoreboard at the airport shows “aircraft landed” and for some time, then the plane landed at that time.

"Customs" - the place where customs control will be carried out. The sign is located at the entrance to the customs area. This is found in terminals, airports and train stations. Required to screen passengers departing/arriving from international flights.

"Concession stand" - here you can relax, have a bite, especially when you have a long and difficult journey - "snack bar". Such words are located in front of the entrance to small cafes or bars inside the airport building.

"Lavatory" - toilet, the word is found inside the airport, aircraft. If you can’t find it yourself, you can check with the employees located there.

Interesting! It is possible to get lost inside the airport if you do not know what the identification plates mean. However, any building of this kind is provided with a floor plan, in addition, you can ask a security guard or an employee of the information desk.

Pointers

What inscriptions can be on the scoreboard next to the flight indication:

  • “boarding” means landing;
  • "cancelled" - sometimes instead of it you can see "diverted" - it turns out, the flight is canceled;
  • "check in" - registration has clearly begun, usually the inscription is supplemented with the number of the desired registration desk;
  • "scheduled" - sometimes you can see "on time" instead - everything is fine, the plane takes off as usual, according to the schedule;
  • "delayed" - the word is supplemented with time (50 m late) - the flight is delayed by the time indicated there;
  • "departed" - alas, the flight has departed;
  • "final" - sometimes this word is indicated with time, which means that the final time is visible.

So, the order of the words and the types of inscriptions may vary. Different airports follow their own rules. However, this does not change the meaning of the basic terms. So landed translation at the airport on the scoreboard will always help the traveler to catch his flight on time and not get lost in this airport "kitchen". It is also worth remembering that there are two scoreboards, one is needed for arriving, the second for departing.

So, you went on a trip to an English-speaking country. And if you should not have any difficulties in explaining your flight from a Russian city, then on the way back you will need English at the airport - read the most necessary words and phrases in this article.

Airport in English - airport. Which is not much different from our spelling, so it is very easy to remember. Otherwise, words such as flight (flight), departure (departure), arrival (arrival) and others differ so much that you can get confused without knowing English.

inscriptions

Below are the words and symbols at the airport in English with translation into Russian. They can be useful to you, especially if there is no Russian-speaking person nearby who could suggest their meanings.

information - information, inquiry Office.
International Flights - international flights.
Check-in - registration.
Check-in counter - front desk.
Security Check - control of the security service.
Passport Control - passport control.
Customs - customs control.
Arrivals - arrival area.
Departures - departure area.
Departure Gate - boarding gate.
Baggage Claim - baggage claim.
Money Exchange - currency exchange.
exit - exit.
Toilets - toilets.

Designations in the boarding pass

Boarding pass (Boarding pass translated into English) contains the following important information:
Flight number - the number of the flight you are flying on.
Departure time - departure time.
Arrival time - the time of arrival at the destination.
Gate - exit number.
Boarding time - the time of boarding the plane.
Seat - indicates your seat on the plane.

Buying a ticket

If you didn’t buy a return ticket in, but are going to buy it abroad, then the information below will come in handy.

Ticket in English - ticket.

You can find out the cost of a ticket by asking the question: “How much is the ticket?” [how mach from ze tikit?] - “How much is the ticket?” Having received an answer on the cost, if you want to purchase one ticket, then say: “I need one ticket” [ay nid one ticket] - “I need one ticket.” If you need two tickets, the phrase will look like this: “I need two tickets” [ay nid to tikits] - “I need two tickets.” If you need large quantity tickets, I think you understand where in the phrase their number is indicated, and the article about will help you name it correctly.

What questions might arise and how to ask them

Where is the information desk located? – Where is the information office? [wea from the information office?]
Is this flight number...? – Is it flight number …? [from it flight nambe...?]
Where can I book (buy) a plane ticket? – Where can I book (buy) a plane ticket? [wea ken ai book (bai) e plane tikit]
When is the next flight for...? – When is the next flight to …? [wen from the next flight tou...?]
Where can I return a ticket? – Where can I return my ticket? [wea ken ai rityon mai tikit?]

Questions related to luggage and hand luggage

In English, luggage is pronounced [luggage] and is written like this: “luggage”. Sometimes you can subtract that in the American version the word "baggage" looks different, namely as "baggage" [bagidzh]. There are many more subtleties and nuances in the use of "luggage" and "baggage" that we will not touch on now - just don't be surprised when you come across both words (in phrases and inscriptions). In the questions and statements presented below, only the first option will be used.

Where is baggage checked in? – Where can I have my luggage registered? [wea can ai have ma lagij registad?]
Where can I get my baggage? – Where can I pick up my luggage? [wea ken ai peek up my lagij?]
How much luggage can you take with you? – How much luggage can I take? [how mach lagij ken eye take?]
How much do you pay for being overweight? How much should I pay for the excess weight? [how mach shud ai pei fo the xses wait?]
I only have hand luggage. – I’ve carry-on luggage only. [ive carion lagij ownley]
Where is the storage room? – Where is the left luggage office? [wea from the left lagage office?]

For business or pleasure, from time to time we fly abroad. And then the question arises: how to behave in English-speaking airports? What questions can be asked there? What situations arise?

In this article, we will look at the most common words that you may need at a foreign airport. Let's start with registration and finish with a successful arrival at your destination.

Well then, let's go!

1. How to check in at the airport


At registration (check-in/[check-in]) you will first be asked to present passport("passport" ["pɑːspɔːt] / [p`aspot]) and ticket("ticket" [ˈtɪkɪt]/[t'ikit]).

May I have you passport, please?
Can your passport, Please?

May I have you tickets?
Can your tickets?

After that you have to check a bag- ("check in luggage/bag" /[check e-bag]).

Are you checking any bags?
Will register bags?

How many bags are you checking?
How much bags/suitcases do you register?

Here we also need the word scale- ("scales" / [scale]).

Please put your bag on the scale.
Please put bag/suitcase on the scales.

We often take carry-on("hand luggage" [ˈkæri-ɒn]/[k'eri he]).

Do you have a carry-on bag?
Do you have any carry-on baggage?

Your carry-on is too large.
Your manual luggage too big.

Sometimes it turns out that your bag overweight("too heavy, overweight" [ˈəʊvəweɪt]/[ `owewaite]).

Your baggage is overweight.
At your luggage preponderance.

By how many kilos is my baggage overweight?
How many kilograms do I have preponderance luggage?

However, instead of overweight simpler words can be used:

Your baggage is too heavy.
Your luggage is too heavy.

Your baggage is too large.
Your luggage is too big.

You have excess baggage.
You too much a lot of baggage.

If you really have an advantage and have to pay extra, then you can ask about the price like this:

How much should I pay for excess baggage per kilo?
How much do I have to pay for a kilogram of excess baggage?

If you can take something out ( take out/[take `out]) and transfer to hand luggage right on the spot, you can report this as follows:

Let me take a few things out.
Let me take out a few things.

If your suitcase contains fragile items, you can stick a sticker on it with the inscription fragile(fragile [ˈfræʤaɪl]/[fr`agile]) to inform the airport staff.

Sometimes for different reasons flights (flight/[flight]) delayed (delayed"delayed" /[dil'eid]). You may be informed about this upon registration:

Your flight has been delayed.
your flight was detained.

If something will canceled (failurelled[ˈkænsəld]/[k`enseld]), you may hear the following:

Your flight has been canceled.
Your flight was canceled.

! Additional questions.

In the United States, it may happen that for security reasons you will be asked additional questions during registration. They might look like this:

Did you pack your bags yourself?
Did you pack your bags yourself?

Has your luggage been in your possession at all times?
Was your luggage with you at all times?

Did you leave your bag unattended at any time?
Have you ever left your bag unattended for any length of time?

Has anyone given you anything to carry on the flight?
Did you receive any items from the other person that you will have with you during the flight?

The purpose of these questions is to make sure that potential intruders couldn't put anything in your suitcase.

You may also be asked the following:

Are you traveling with any liquids?
Do you have any liquids with you?

Are you carrying any firearms or flammable materials?
Do you carry firearms or flammable items with you?

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2. Security at the airport

On guard you'll come through metal detector("metal detector" [ˈmɛtl dɪˈtɛktə]/[m`etl dit`ekte]) and pass your luggage through x-ray machine("X-ray scanner" [ˈɛksˈreɪ məˈʃiːn]/[expr'ey machine]).

IN x-ray machine built in conveyor belt("conveyor" / [conveyor bet]), on which luggage is placed. You will most likely be asked:

Put your bags on the conveyor belt, please.
Put your bags/suitcases on conveyor, Please.

When you pass through the metal detector, you may be asked to remove your shoes or ask additional questions about the presence of metal objects. Additional requests might look like this:

Spread your arms out please.
Spread your arms out to the sides, please.

Open your bag.
Open your bag.

Take your shoes off.
Take off your shoes.

Please take off your jacket.
Please take off your jacket.

Take off/remove your belt.
Remove the belt.

Do you have any keys or change in your pockets?
Do you have keys or small coins in your pockets?

If you have a computer with you in a case, you can also ask:

Do I need to take my laptop out of the bag?
Do I need to take my laptop out of my bag?

To which you will most likely be answered "yes".

When the screening procedure is over, you will wish:

Have a nice flight!
Pleasant flight!

3. Boarding announcements


Each airport is divided into large parts - terminals (terminals[ˈtɜːmɪnlz] / [t`yominlz]). Each terminal, in turn, has a certain number of exits (gate/[gate]), through which landing (boarding[ˈbɔːdɪŋ] / [b`one]) on the plane. After we passed through the security post, we should expect an announcement about the start of landing on the desired aircraft.

At this time, we can hear the following things:

Flight ___ is now boarding at gate ___.
Flight ___ is landing at gate ___.

We would now like to invite all passengers to board.
We would like to invite all passengers to board.

There has been a gate change.
Boarding gate number has changed.

This is the final boarding call for ___.
This is the last call to board the plane ___.

4. Communication on board

On board you can ask flightattendant("steward, stewardess" / [flight at'endent]) in addition to food and drink, for example, pillow("pillow" [ˈpɪləʊ]/[p`ilou]), blanket("blanket" [ˈblæŋkɪt]/[bl'enkit]), napkins("napkins" [ˈnæpkɪnz]/[n`epkinz]).

Use the following polite phrase:

Could I have a __________?

And don't forget to say "thank you".

5. How to get through customs and get your luggage

Hooray, here we are, finally! The first thing we have to go through here is customs("customs" [ˈkʌstəmz]/[k`astemz]). Here you may be asked some general questions regarding your visit: paragraph destination (destination[ˌdɛstɪˈneɪʃən]/[destin'ation]), target (purpose[ˈpɜːpəs] / [p'epes]) visit, availability of items that you need declare (declare/[dikl`ea]). Eg:

What is your final destination?
What is your final paragraph destination?

What is the purpose of your visit?
What is target your visit?

How long are you staying in ____?
How much time do you plan to spend in ___?

Do you have anything to declare?
Do you have something you need declare? (We are talking about weapons, medicines, in large numbers money - that is, about things that may be prohibited in the country where you arrived, and for which you will have to pay taxes).

In order to pick up your suitcases, you have to find a department called: baggage claims("customs" [ˈbægɪʤ kleɪm]/[b'egidzh brand]) or baggage reclaim("customs" [ˈbægɪʤ rɪˈkleɪm]/[b'egidzh rikl'eim]) - that is, the baggage claim point.

It also happens that in the confusion we lose things at the airport. In this case, you can try to look for them in the lost and found office ( lost property/[lost prʻety] in Europe and the UK or lost and found/[lost and found] in the US).

If suddenly something happened to your luggage: let's say it was lost (lost/[lost]), or damaged (damaged[ˈdæmɪʤd]/[d`emijd]) or some things are missing ( missing[ˈmɪsɪŋ] / [m`isin]), then you can tell the staff about this using the following phrases:

My baggage lost.
My luggage was lost.

My baggage damaged.
My luggage damaged.

A few things are missing from my baggage.
From luggage gone some things.

That's all, I hope the article was useful and interesting! Happy travels!

Everyone wants to travel abroad and feel comfortable and confident at the same time: communicate freely, start interesting acquaintances to understand everything, to be able to ask and answer.

Among you there are both experienced travelers who have visited dozens of countries, and beginners who have only flown a couple of times. But both of them will agree that English is a must on any trip abroad. Wherever you go, no matter what airport in the world you get to.

If you don't want to ride again sunny resort, crowded with our compatriots, and planning an independent trip to a country where ordinary citizens do not speak your language, you should get your English in shape.

We all know that sometimes the most elementary words are missing and we have to explain simple things “on the fingers”. In order to have fewer explanations at the level of gestures, and more useful vocabulary in the active vocabulary, I propose to consider and remember (or remember) those words and phrases that will certainly come in handy when you find yourself at a foreign airport.

I don't want to give you those awful word-lists, so we're going to take a step-by-step look at the typical procedures that every passenger goes through at an airport. My goal is not to give you a manual on behavior, not to tell you where to go and what to do, but to introduce you to the essential vocabulary for each stage.

And the transcription is not indicated to scare you (as someone might think), but so that you pay attention not only to spelling, but also to the pronunciation of words.

So, let's get started.

Your trip from the fact that you arrive at the airport to the terminal you need ( terminal building/"tɜːmɪnəl "bɪldɪŋ/) and head to the departure hall ( departures/dɪˈpɑːtʃəz/), whose name comes from the verb to depart/dɪ"pɑːt/ - to go.

How long before departure do you need to be at the airport? If you have a long distance flight long haul flight/ˌlɔŋ "hɔːl flaɪt/), then you should appear at the airport two to three hours before the scheduled departure time ( scheduled departure/ˈʃɛdjuːld dɪˈpɑːtʃəz/). Even if you travel a short distance ( short haul flight/"ʃɔːthɔːl flaɪt/), you should still take care to arrive at the airport in advance ( arrive at the airport in good time for your flight), to have time to hand over the bags ( drop your bags), get your boarding pass, go through all security checks and proceed to the boarding gate. As a rule, you receive all recommendations and instructions for registration ( check-in instructions/"ʧekɪn ɪnˈstrʌkʃənz/) along with ticket booking ( with your booking/"bukɪŋ/).

When you enter the departures hall, you can easily find the schedule ( departure board/dɪ"pɑːʧə bɔːd/), which shows flight numbers ( flight numbers), departure time ( departure times) and numbers of check-in counters ( check-in desk) for each flight.

In addition, at any airport there are many information boards and screens ( information screens) to help guide you. you find your check-in desk and wait for registration check-in). When your turn finally reaches you, an airline employee will check your ticket ( ticket), passport ( passport/"pɑːspɔːt/) and issue a boarding pass ( boarding card/"bɔːdɪŋ kɑːd/ or boarding pass).

Your luggage ( your luggage/"lʌgɪʤ/) weigh ( weigh/weɪ/) and if it turns out to be heavier than the allowable norm, then you will be asked to pay extra for the excess ( pay excess baggage/peɪ ɪk "ses "bægɪʤ/).

To save time, many prefer to register online ( check in online) in advance ( in advance/ɪnəd "vɑːns/). Some airports have self check-in machines ( self-service check-in machines/ˌself"sɜːvɪs"ʧekɪn məˈʃiːnz/), which issue boarding cards.

For those who register online or on mobile devices ( mobile check-in), in modern terminals it is possible to check in luggage on your own ( bag drop facility/ˌbæg "drɔp fə" sɪlətɪ/) in special places called bag drop kiosks/ˌbæg"drɔp"kiːɔsks/.

In the cabin of the aircraft you take hand luggage with you ( hand luggage/hænd "lʌgɪʤ/", with items you will need during the flight ( items that you will need during the flight) And valuable things (valuables/"væljuəblz/". Do not confuse valuables with values/"væljuːz/ - values ​​(personal and moral).

After boarding card received and checked in, you will have to stand in a couple more lines to go through security checks ( security check/sɪ"kjuərətɪ ʧek/) and passport control ( passport control/"pɑːspɔːt kən" trəul/).

If you have prohibited items ( prohibited goods/prəˈhɪbɪtɪd gudz/), then at the stage security check they have to say goodbye. I once, with tears, left a beautiful umbrella just bought for airport employees, because it seemed to them too big for hand luggage. In order to avoid negative emotions, it is important to follow the rules for carrying hand luggage ( hand luggage rules) and know what is allowed to be carried on board and what is better to check in as luggage. You can read about this, for example, on the Heathrow airport website: Security and Baggage FAQs - a guide based on real questions and requests from passengers. In English, of course, but how!

After all the controls and checks have been passed, you will be taken to the departures hall ( departure lounge/dɪ"pɑːʧə launʤ/), where you can finally relax, unless, of course, boarding your flight ends in three minutes.

If there is no need to run headlong to the boarding gate ( gate/geɪt/), then before boarding ( boarding /"bɔːdɪŋ/) starts, you have time to eat ( have a snack/snæk/), drink coffee, recharge your devices ( charge your gadgets/"gæʤɪts/) at recharging points ( free charging stations) or visit the shops duty-free/"djuːtɪ"friː/. I won’t talk about them in detail, you already know that everyone usually goes there in order to buy alcohol ( purchase alcohol/"pɜːʧəs "ælkəhɔl/), smell perfume ( smell perfumes/"pɜːfjuːmz/), or just stare at the shop windows ( do some window shopping) and compare prices ( compare prices/ kəm "peə ˈpraɪsɪz /).

It is important to listen to announcements ( announcements/ə"naun(t)smənts/). If your flight is not delayed ( delayed/dɪˈleɪd/) and not canceled ( canceled/ˈkænsəld/), then gate Opens about half an hour before takeoff take off). you present boarding card and follow the plane to your seat ( seat).

About the vocabulary you need during your flight, I will not tell here. But I will definitely tell you. Next time. A separate topic.

Arriving at destination destination/ˌdestɪ"neɪʃn/), you get off the plane ( get off the plane) and go to the terminal building. For passing passport control passengers line up in separate queues ( separate lines/"sepərət laɪnz/) - for citizens of the country of arrival and for foreigners ( foreign citizens/"fɔrɪn ˈsɪtɪzənz/). And at some airports passport control automated ( automated/ˌɔːtə "meɪtɪd/).

You also have to go through customs go through customs/"kʌstəmz/). If you have nothing to declare ( nothing to declare/ dɪ "kleə /) - a green corridor for you ( green lane/leɪn/) if you have something to declare ( goods to declare) - red ( red lane).

After you go to the baggage claim area ( baggage claim/"bægɪʤ rɪ"kleɪm/), find on information screen your flight number and the number of the baggage carrier corresponding to it ( carousel/ˌkærə"sel/). Wait for your suitcase to appear and be careful not to be taken by someone else.

Finally, you collect your luggage ( collect your luggage) and go to the arrivals area ( public arrivals area/"pʌblɪk əˈraɪvəlz" eərɪə/), where taxi drivers attack you and offer you a trip to anywhere in the city at a triple rate. However, travel advice for communicating with taxi drivers is a completely different story.

Now you have the necessary lexical minimum to navigate the airport. And on your next journey, you will already feel more confident and will be able to use this knowledge.

But learning words in English is not the most difficult problem. With this, the ENGINFORM team can help you even in absentia (which we do on the pages of our blog and in communities in