Why do Pilots say "Roger" ?

Answer 1

You're not really supposed to say "roger", it's supposed to be "roger wilco" ( meaning I understand and will comply) or just" wilco". Sometimes, when the frequency is extremely busy, many pilots shortcut it to Roger, but this can be dangerous.

The proper method to respond to air traffic control communications is with your call sign or flight number and repeat the important part of the instruction given. That way, the controller understands that YOU, the pilot, know what you are supposed to do.

For example, the controller might say: "Cessna 1234, cleared to land" The pilot should say "Cleared to land, Cessna 1234" Or if it's an airline flight " United 1234, cleared to land" etc.

Answer 2

Pretty much all commercial pilots, air traffic controllers and emergency crews use some sort of jargon which is part of their training. I believe the FAA has a standardized behavior for communicating on airfield frequencies, but that doesn't mean everyone follows it.

At my airfield, most of the controllers said "Roger that" because they're navy service members. Those who are prior military will sometimes allow their prior training to slip through.

Answer 3

Pilots say "Roger" when they're poorly trained. The proper term is "Wilco" which means "will comply". This is the proper response when given directions from a controller. Often the tail number of your craft is substituted for "wilco" as it is both clear who you are, and it is assumed you have understood and will comply.

The phrase comes from jaunty young Brits (of course) during World War II. They frequently went off to "Rodger Gerry". ...nothing like a jolly good rodgering. This is a little less forthright than saying "f*ck" like the Americans do, but means pretty much the same thing.

Answer 4

Roger is a Phonetic way of saying "R" it became a way of telling the controller that you have "received" thier last transmission. Its not proper form though. just because you have received the transmission the controller would like to know that you will comply with their directions AKA "Roger, Wilco" which means I have received your last transmission and I will comply with it. Although If you say that you will look like a complete dork.

Answer 5

Its short for Roger Wilco...a morse code thingy...which is explained in depth at the following site;

http://ac6v.com/73.htm

Answer 6

to confirm a call over the radio

Answer 7

because michael has too many syllables