Closed loop communication is standard in aviation. It is so simple yet so effective. If an instruction is given by air traffic control (ATC), it must be repeated back by the crew in the cockpit. In turn, this eliminates any uncertainty. If there is an instance of misunderstanding, this can be corrected by ATC.

The clip features Chris Paton who who provides a more detailed explanation of the topic in question.

Crew Resource Management - frequently abbreviated to CRM - is crucial to achieving a positive outcome in situations where there is room for human error. CRM forms a significant portion of training programs for air crew. In essence, when we talk about CRM, we are referring to how air crew should react to potentially dangerous situations and interact with each other. Some of the world's worst air accidents have occurred due to a lack of CRM. My understanding is that communication is a key part of CRM. If aircrew cannot or do not articulate concerns or problems accurately, this can lead to a point where the crew no longer perform as they should.

Excellent CRM involves the use of all tools or knowledge available to ensure that a situation is dealt with in the most appropriate way to fully minimise the risk of danger. It goes without saying that this can only be achieved with excellent communication.

Mentour Pilot, as he's known on YouTube, is excellent at explaining the more complex aspects of aviation. He's an airline captain in Europe who also makes videos covering different aviation topics. His video here is an excellent in-depth look at CRM.

Though rarely thought of as essential communication, passenger announcements and communication with cabin crew is pivotal. It is important to reassure passengers, even confident flyers, as some situations can arise which generate anxiety. Being trapped with 170 other people in a metal tube can be somewhat intimidating on its own. So any disruption to the usual flow could make passengers question their safety.

Even the safety briefing performed before a flight is absolutely essential, hence why it is a legal requirement. Listening to it could save your life were the worst to happen.

On a side note, you may have seen videos of cabin crew flexing their comedic muscles before a flight. Some people may condemn this and label it as unprofessional, but I think it's brilliant. If you are a nervous passenger or irritated by the stress of travel, a bit of humour can go a long way in lightening your mood. This video here is one of my personal favourites but there are plenty more to be seen online.

The video here was filmed at Manchester Airport, UK in 2007 when a Thomson Airways Boeing 757-200 suffered a bird strike immediately after takeoff. The right hand number two engine of the aircraft is consequently damaged and begins spitting flames indicating a compressor surge/stall - a common symptom of foreign object ingestion.

The video also includes a recording of the transmissions made between the crew and air traffic control. It can be seen how both parties make use of closed loop communication, clarification, and CRM. It seems the actions they exhibit are the epitome of professionalism. They even make it look and sound easy. If a breakdown in communication had occurred, the situation could have carried significantly more risk. The BBC News report covering the story confirmed that thankfully no one on board was injured - a terrific outcome of a likely frightening experience for those travelling onboard.