Conclusions and future research

This book has explored various facets of the concept of Aviation English and the role of Aviation English in aviation communication. We have tried to untangle the notions of Aviation English as a lingua franca as distinct from ELF and of aviation language, too often confused with English itself. We showed that AE is restricted variety of English designed and used for the specific purpose of communication in the aviation environment. Throughout this book we have emphasized that NES have a privileged position in that their knowledge of English is an advantage in learning AE, but they are also sometimes at a disadvantage, not always recognizing the boundaries between English and Aviation English and their responsibility in ensuring intelligibility by all aviation personnel, NES and EL2. Aviation English, unlike other Englishes for specific purposes, has been designed – and is regularly modified – to ensure one goal: aviation safety through efficient communication.